Safety Guidelines at GWC

The GWC Safety Manual is based on U.S. Coast Guard, US Rowing, and other organizations' guidelines, in addition to the extensive experience brought by members. Safety is the number one priority of all organizations and people who use the river and canal. This document is meant as a means to educate and provide the tools for safe use of the river. These guidelines are written for everyone's benefit. Furthermore, it is emphasized that all coaches should regularly review proper safety procedures with their personnel and ways to handle emergency situations of all kinds.

Click here to view or download the GWC Safety Manual

Click here to view or download the GWC Safety Manual Appendix

All GWC paddlers and rowers are expected to make themselves familiar with the guidelines and work to make sure others are aware of them, also. Consistent disregard for the guidelines may result in the loss of membership privileges with GWC.

The major programs and organizations shall be responsible for implementation and enforcement of these guidelines. Violations should be dealt with within the sanctions available. Recurring incidents evidencing blatant disregard of the guidelines may be referred to the GWC Executive Director for resolution which may include

• Revocation of privileges (i.e. limitations on use of the facility, or equipment)
• Denial of entry into sponsored regattas/races/events
• Termination of Lease/License Agreement

The GWC Safety Committee Chair and GWC Executive Director are responsible for rule interpretation.  Violations of the safety guidelines must be reported to the Safety Committee Chair of the GWC.  If you have a suggestion for improving the safety of our operation, contact the GWC:

To contact the Program Committee Chair or GWC staff: 
Phone: 585-328-3960
Email: info@geneseewaterways.org

Incident Report Forms

If you observe an incident that takes place on the river or at the boathouse that requires GWC's attention, please fill out a Incident Report Form and return it to GWC staff within 48 hours. The Incident Report Forms are located in the small boathouse by the sign in desk, in the white mailbox on the office door (inside building), or click here to download a form

Return completed forms to GWC staff: place in small boathouse in labeled folder or in white mailbox on the office door. 

Instances that require GWC to be notified include injury to an individual at our facility that requires more than First Aid, especially if EMS has responded to a situation at the GWC facility; equipment misuse, failure, or damage; or a facility maintenance concern.

Thank you for your cooperation!