On all LSKC paddles each individual is responsible for their own safety. The club promotes safety through training opportunities and by encouraging members to develop their skills. As with any outdoor pursuit, sea kayaking carries an element of risk. It can be hazardous and, in extreme cases, fatal. It is important that members study the information below, understand the basis of their participation and not put themselves or other paddlers at risk.
The majority of club paddles are not led or guided by qualified instructors. They are essentially peer paddles, with an organiser who is a volunteer. Organisers do not accept responsibility for other paddlers or for instructing them as part of the paddle. Members take part at their own risk and are responsible for their personal safety. They should be satisfied that they have sufficient skills and experience to cope with the existing and forecast conditions on the day. The decision to take part is one for the individual member. They are also responsible for having appropriate food, drink, clothing and equipment for what is proposed and for getting it to the launch site. Please check out the trip kit lists which you’ll find on the Resources page.
Details of club paddles will be posted on the website by the paddle organiser, who acts as a coordinator. They will post up details of the time, place and likely duration of the paddle, together with its grading Pathway, A, B or C (Paddle Gradings). They may add more detailed information about the likely level of difficulty and their assessment of the skill level required. They will include the weather forecast and tidal information for the area.
The organiser is responsible for preparing and delivering a Beach Briefing at the launch site, which will include the details posted on the website, together with any updates (e.g. for weather, sea conditions, etc) available. They will carry emergency contact cards for all paddlers on the trip.
Participants remain responsible for checking the weather conditions leading up to and on the day, and being satisfied whether it remains within their capability.
All participants are required to carry 2 emergency contact cards, one of which is handed to the trip leader for the duration of the trip for use in any emergency situation which requires it.
Paid up club members taking part in these club or “official” paddles will normally be covered by public liability insurance cover. LSKC members may also use the LSKC email service to organise paddles informally. These are not considered club paddles. Members taking part may not be covered by the public liability insurance cover which the club enjoys as an SCA affiliate, unless they are individual SCA members in their own right. If they are uncertain they should consult the SCA.