Safety

Dragon boat racing is an inherently dangerous sport and must be treated as such. Dragon boats must share the water with other watercraft. Pleasure boaters, commercial ships and other boats all present a hazard. The steerer has the ultimate authority and responsibility on the boat regarding safety.

Do Not Go Out If Conditions Are Unsafe
Make it a team rule that anyone can pull the plug on a practice if they feel conditions are not safe. Unsafe conditions include:

Thunderstorms

Excessive wind

Excessive debris in the water, especially after a rainstorm or flood

Pollution and raw sewage spills

Too few paddlers (minimum of 10 EXPERIENCED)

Life Jackets Are Mandatory
Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) or life jackets must be US Coast Guard (USCG) approved. They should be worn OVER all other clothing, and must be fully secured with all buckles fastened and cinched snug, but not too tight as to restrict taking deep breaths while paddling.

When choosing a PFD, look for one that does not restrict arm movement and does not extend down to the waist. When trying on a PFD, simulate the paddling strokes and check if there is any noticeable friction. Also sit down and check if the bottom of the PFD gets in the way when leaning forward. If it does, get a shorter one. (The X-General Team will arrange for any Dragon Boating gear needed.)

Boat Traffic
Dragon boats are low to the water and difficult to spot. Always be on the lookout and stay aware of other boats around you. Never assume anything! Yield to everyone; never assume that someone will yield to you. The steerer is responsible for controlling the boat and can override the coach or caller in order to avoid a collision.

Capsizing
Dragon boats DO FLIP OVER (although very seldom). Our team uses the buddy system. Your seatmate is your buddy. Lead strokers buddy up with the caller. Last row paddlers buddy up with the steerer. Should the boat capsize, follow this procedure:

REMAIN CALM. The steerer or caller or captain should take charge.

Identify injuries and implement the buddy system to account for everyone.

Grab as much gear as SAFELY possible: paddles, steering oar, bailers, dry bags, etc.

If help is nearby, hang on to the boat and wait for assistance. Get up on the boat and out of the water as much as possible.

If no help is nearby, swim the boat to the nearest shore, right the boat and empty out the water.

Get dry as soon as possible.

Most capsizes occur due to either someone standing up when the crew was not prepared, or by an improperly loaded boat. There are several ways to minimize chances of capsizing. First, keep the boat balanced. Too many paddlers positioned on one side are both uncomfortable and dangerous. If you have two extra port side paddlers, have one sit on starboard for balance. Have the paddlers trade places periodically to keep the boat balanced and to give everyone a chance to participate. Use the helm and caller to keep the boat balanced. Some crews are heavier on one side. The helm and caller can shift their weight to keep the boat balanced. If you have to make seating changes during practice, have the paddlers move one bench at a time (not all at once) starting in the front and working to the back. Stay seated, especially if the boat is moving. It is very exciting to win your first race and equally embarrassing to stand up and capsize the boat in front of the crowd. No sudden movements.