BRJ Open Water Swim Sessions Code of Conduct

BRJ Run & Tri has an agreement with Hinchingbrooke Park to use the sports lake for open water swimming on Friday evenings (members only). Please note swimming is not permitted at any other time. Open Water Swimming is a fantastic experience but it does come with safety issues. Failure to abide by the code of conduct may result in having your membership revoked. There will be a session leader (not swimming) checking you in and out of the lake and they have the overall say on when and where you can swim. Bad weather conditions may prevent the swim sessions from going ahead right up to and during the swim session.

Please read the code of conduct below to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable swim:-

  • All swimmers MUST be able to swim 750m without stopping to complete the whole lap of the lake. If you can swim a minimum of 150m you can still swim by using the middle of the lake.
  • Please pay special attention to the briefing given by the safety team before your first swim in the lake.
  • Junior members are allowed to swim in open water provided they are accompanied at all times in the lake by their parent or guardian who must be a competent swimmer as well as a member. All code of conduct rules apply to juniors. Juniors MUST wear a wetsuit and use a towfloat if possible.
  • You must sign in with the session leader on arrival. As soon as you exit the water you must sign out.
  • Wetsuits are required if the water temperature is below 18 degrees C. If the water temperature is above 18 degrees then wetsuits are optional but you should swim with a towfloat unless discussed with the session leader beforehand. Bright coloured swim hats are a must, you cannot swim without one.
  • For your safety, please swim in pairs or small groups.
  • Swim in a clockwise direction, keeping the buoys on your right and try not to swim directly down the middle of the lake, this is to avoid people swimming into each other.
  • Please take time to look at the lake and take note of landmarks you can sight when swimming.
  • Keep a look out for other swimmers and stay alert at all times.
  • When entering the water, keep a look out for any objects in the water that might cause harm.
  • Minor cuts and abrasions must be covered up with a plaster. If you have deep cuts, do not swim.
  • Please do not swim if you are unwell. If you become unwell after open water swimming, please see your GP and state where you have been swimming.
  • Try not to ingest any water and after swimming it is good practice not to eat until you have washed your hands.
  • Note, we do not test for water quality.
  • If at any point you get into trouble while swimming, roll onto your back, wave and shout for attention.

I am aware of the dangers and difficulty of open water swimming. In order to reduce the risk and for mutual support, I will swim with a group. I take responsibility for my own actions and absolve the individuals I swim with and BRJ Run & Tri from any liability arising from injury or death whilst, or consequent, to open water swimming. I am medically fit to undertake open water swimming. I have submitted up to date medical information to BRJ Run and Tri.

I do / do not suffer from epilepsy or fits (please delete as appropriate).

 

 

Signed:                                                                                                                                 Date: