What to wear

Clothing

• Paddlers must wear the Club’s official racing jerseys at all regattas.
• Clothes should be tailored to weather conditions and the level of activity.  With the possibility of a boat capsizing, clothes should not be of the type to absorb water to the point of limiting the ability to swim or stay afloat.  Loosely secured hats and sunglasses are discouraged.
• Depending on the site and the availability of docks, paddlers may have to wade into the water to enter the boat so it is recommended that shoes are worn at this time to avoid any injury to the feet. 
• It is highly recommended that paddlers attend practices with a change of clothing and a towel.

Protection from the Sun

Paddlers clearly are susceptible to sunburn but hopefully are aware of its adverse side effects and the more established concerns about skin cancer.  Although shade is sparse on the water, races are of short duration so should not cause any substantial risk.  Where regatta sites lack natural shade, the Club will use a canopy to protect paddlers both from the sun and the rain.  Paddlers are reminded to minimize exposure between 11:00 a.m.  and 3:00 p.m.  when the sun is most intense; to cover up and use a sun screen with a rating of 30+ as those generally provide more effective protection.  Since the sport involves water and perspiration, a waterproof sun screen should be the preferred choice.

Protection from Mosquito Bites

Information is available concerning the West Nile Virus on the Ontario Ministry of Health website at www.HealthyOntario.com or from your physician.  Some mosquitoes carry the West Nile Virus and bites may lead to West Nile Virus infection and, in turn, mild or serious illness.  Research indicates that approximately four out of five people bitten by an infected mosquito do not show any symptoms.  While most people who become infected will experience no symptoms or have very mild illness, for some the symptoms will be pronounced.  Everyone is at risk and precautions are necessary to protect oneself.  Consider using a personal insert repellent.  Use only products that are federally regulated such as those that contain DEET.  The concentration of DEET should be no greater than 30% for adults and no greater than 10% for children.  Apply repellent sparingly on exposed skin surfaces but not on open wounds, or if skin is irritated or sunburned.  Apply on top of clothing and a light coating will do.  Wash skin with soap and water when returning indoors or when protection is no longer needed.