Safety Instructions

A lead paddler escorts the trip during the Tahko Rowing & Canoeing Event. It is desirable that boats and kayaks fly a flag or pennant. An equipment van follows the trip.

Each boat and kayak (craft) must have a captain who is responsible for the overall safety of the craft. A captains’ meeting dealing with route and safety instructions as well as communication equipment will be held on each morning before the departure. Special care should be taken when navigating through canals.

Rowers and paddlers should take precautions to prevent chafing and dehydration, thus minimising the need for help en route. Each participant should have a personal life jacket or buoyancy aid.

Boats should be equipped with two spare oars, an implement for removing water and a paddle. Kayaks should have corresponding backup equipment.

Support boats accompanying rowers and paddlers must not enter the rowing and paddling course. Assistance to rowers or paddlers must be provided from ashore or from a stationary craft parked away from the course.

Safety boats carrying an “SAR” sign will be placed on the course at certain intervals during the entire event. The boats can be contacted by phone, the number of which is given each morning, or by using hand signs or some other emergency signal.

Paddlers, please note!

Take note of the distance of the route (Kuopio – Tahko 98 km or the Lake Terminal – Tahko 75 km) and the speed of travelling.
The average paddling speed is 5-6 kmph.

The option of change-overs offers a number of persons the opportunity to participate in the event at a reasonable cost and makes it less strenuous for each individual. Rowing or paddling the entire distance provides a real challenge.

Map (click on the word)

Liability Insurance
The event organiser has obtained liability insurance for the event.
The insurance covers personal injuries and material damages that are caused by the organiser’s negligence and that the event organiser is liable for in accordance with the provisions of the Finnish Liability Act.

The damage or injury may for example be caused by:
the inadequate condition of the place of business or its structures, equipment and furniture
inadequate maintenance of order or inadequate safety measures
negligence in the performance of duties

Itä-Suomen Soutuklubi ry is a member association of Suomen Latu ry, the liability insurance of which covers this event.

Safety Officer for the Tahko Rowing & Canoeing Event 2010

Arvi Kujala
Pääskyntie 12
FI-73500 Juankoski
Finland
Tel. +358 (0)50 323 8836