• I agree to strictly abide by the swimming times and location advertised on the LRDOWS web site and displayed on the notice by LRDOWS.
• I will not enter the water until all safety arrangements are in place and the safety officer/session leader has indicated that it is safe to do so. I shall exit the water at the end of the session when instructed to do so.
• I will enter and exit the water at the specified places(s) and stay within the designated swim route unless instructed otherwise by safety staff from LRDOWS staff.
• I will wear a wetsuit (unless advised by LRDOWS that this is not required), a brightly coloured swim hat and goggles. I am aware that neoprene gloves and socks are also permitted if I wish to wear them.
• l have signed an online health and safety waiver before entering into the water and will scan in and out after the session.
• I agree to provide up to date emergency contact details and any relevant medical issues and understand that this information will be recorded for my safety.
• I will swim within my ability and respond immediately to any directions given by the safety officer/session coach and anyone providing safety cover, including any instruction to exit the water if required.
LRDOWS.
• I agree to take full responsibility for my possessions whilst swimming.
• I have provided the correct contact details at time of registration and agree to notify LRDOWS immediately if changes or updates as required.
• I will read this participation agreement prior to swimming. Attend the ‘safety status’ briefing given by LRDOWS prior to a swim session and seek a coaching course if I have not been in open water before.
• I agree to abide by the safety measures detailed in this Participant Swim Agreement and on any other Safety requirements issued on the day from authorised safety staff of SOWS.
• I am fully aware of the dangers of swimming in Open Water and am aware of the fitness levels required.
• I accept that LRD, RKC and coaching staff and LRDOWS cannot be held responsible for any loss or injury howsoever caused.
• I swim at my own risk.
GENERAL ADVICE TO SWIMMERS
• Cover all cuts and abrasions with sticking plaster. You should not consider swimming if you have deep cuts.
• Wash hands in fresh water before eating after you have swum.
• Take a full shower at the earliest opportunity.
• Try to ingest a minimum amount of water whilst swimming.
• Don’t swim if you feel unwell.
• Make sure you’re well fuelled and hydrated but allow a couple of hours before you swim if you’ve had a bigger meal.
• Make sure you have well-fitting goggles and a bright swim hat.
• Make sure you have warm clothes for after your swim.
• Do not exceed your personal capabilities on the day of your swim; ‘if in doubt, don’t go out’!
• Do not swim too close to the bank to reduce risk of bacteria and infection.
