@Liisa Reimann I'd love some drills to combat boredom.

Luckily on Portage Lakes (Ohio) rules are posted, and we have no-wake zones. The speed boat lanes and times are posted as well. Our BCS team has been paddling on our lake for 20 years so we often see pontoon boats, kayakers, etc taking photos as we go by. Non-motorized boats have the right away over motor boats. That being said, we do have small motorized fishing boats with drivers that might be on the lake for the first time. My approach there is to give them a wide birth because in addition to wake, there are also fishing lines to be aware of. We almost had a drummer get decapitated when our boat crossed a fishing line. Definitely something to pay attention to!!

@Joann Fegley Yes!

Our team has not conducted a capsize simulation, although we’ve been to races where it has happened to other boats. Some of our tenured members have “talked thru it”, but since we’ve invited new members it is time to revisit this aspect of safety. I love the resource checklist provided and plan to print and laminate it. In addition I think showing a video of a capsize practice would be helpful for the team to view in advance of any practice. Does anyone know if something like this exists?

@Joann Fegley Great suggestions! And if you happen to find any videos, I'd love to see them. Thanks!

A few that we use, which I don't think were mentioned in the video (or perhaps a variation) include: Let it Ride Hold Water All boats ready - race start We have alignment - race start Hips to the rail (to balance the boat and check for weight) Give me 5 strokes (front / back) Watch for wake (especially when the crazy boat drivers try to splash us) Reach it out (when transitioning from race start to the race course)

Prior to leaving the doc (race or practice) we always count off. Stroke pair are buddies with the drummer and row 10 is responsible for the Steerer. This ensures everyone knows who to look for in the event of a capsize or a single person falling off the boat. drummer falls: - immediately yell “hold water” - Hold a single paddle in the air to signify help is needed to officials - If possible, have drummer get back on the boat either with help of Stroke pair or engine room (where boat gunnels sit lowest). Have paddlers flare paddles to support the boat from tipping. - If water below 60 degrees immediately try to warm up the person, perhaps with body heat until boat can get to shore - Once on shore, warm blankets, warm beverage (ie hot water) and remove any wet clothes to change if possible. - Same holds true with Steere, however, ensure back row is aware to yell “hold water” if they hear/see the Steere person fall into water.