TRR Safety Review TRR Chapter Name Gear Maintenance

TRR Safety Review <TRR Chapter Name>

Gear Maintenance • TRR provides a lot of equipment, this is a potential liability • Kayak paddles may have risk issues like sharp edges, cracks, etc. • Examples: Damaged back bands, Skegs that don’t retract, Loose internals, Cracked helmets • Inspect all gear and take damaged gear out of service immediately • Inventory & Inspect annually – Especially the First Aid Kit

Trip Planning • TRR provides more details in the Trip Leader Presentation • Record venue cut-offs and stick to those cut-offs • Evaluate your participants, don’t exceed the lowest skill set • Always bring a First Aid Kit, consider other group gear as needed • Pay close attention to hypothermia, be prepared

Personal Preparation • Physical Preparation is key to Safety: • • Endurance – Swimming, Cardio, etc. Strength Training – Avoids injuries and enhances execution Balance – Bike Riding, Yoga, etc. Stretching – Avoids muscle injuries (only after warm-up) • Mental Preparation: • • Skills Training: TRR Paddler & Instructor Checklists Swiftwater Rescue Wilderness First Aid Setting Goals & Planning Trips/Events

Personal Preparation (Continued) • Lifestyle: • • Alcohol Consumption Proper Diet Stay Active throughout the year Doctor Physical & Vaccinations Proper Medications Adequate Rest & Time off – Avoid Burnout Friendships Think Holistic – Paddling is only part of a well-rounded life. A Positive/Confident Outlook comes from all the above

Group Gear • First Aid Kit with TRR Incident Report Form & SOAP Notes • Breakdown Paddle • Consider a secured cell phone • Pin Kit depending on venue, this can be wearable • Two full size throw bags

TRR Incident Reports • Please prepare for more serious injuries • Important as part of liability protection • TRR National will ensure the forms and FAK are in the trailer • All Chapter FAKs have the necessary forms

Swimmers • Flush Drowning is the #1 cause of experienced paddler fatalities • Rescue quickly, concentrate on the swimmer • Look for the closest stabilization location • Practice swimming in rapids, it’s a perishable skill • Practice throw rope usage, this is also a perishable skill • Practice swims with & without gear

SWR Practice • Integrate periodic SWR Skills practice throughout the year • Take a SWR Class every two years • Maintain CPR & First Aid Certifications

Chapter Specific • Discussion on 2019 incidents • Improvements: • Gear • Classes/Training • Practice

Wrap-up • TRR has a great track record • There’s always room for improvement – monitor! • The TRR website has lots of resources/articles • TRR heavily supports training & certifications • Review the Will Leverette Risk Management in Six Steps article