Safety is the first priority, and all competitors must have regard for the safety of themselves and other competitors and river users.

In the interests of safety please familiarise yourself with the safety information and the circulation pattern.

Competitors should perform their own risk assessment on the day of the race to decide whether they are competent to race and navigate safely in the conditions.

Crews must follow the race circulation plan at all times. The circulation pattern will apply from 10.00am until 16.00pm. Outside of those times Normal River Rules apply. Please review both the Circulation Plan diagram and the notes regarding circulation in the Competitors Instructions.

Points of danger:

• Crews are advised to turn well above Hambledon Weir, which is a few hundred metres below the start.
• Crews should not turn in the 200m stretch upstream of Temple Island.
• Crews should be observant of other river craft, notably coming downstream through Henley bridge or progressing upstream in the navigation channel.
• River craft moored on the Berks (Leander / UTRC bank)
• Other river users may be using a channel in the centre of the river.

Medical and First Aid facilities are found in the boating area and at Upper Thames Rowing Club (500m before the finish).

Safety launches will be operating on the course, one between the finish and Temple Island, the other between Temple Island and the start.

In the event of an accident on the water any casualties should be taken to Upper Thames Rowing Club or the landing stages whichever is the nearest. This decision should be relayed to the Safety Officer by the nearest official.

Pre-existing medical complaints that may have a bearing on safety should be declared at registration.

There are radios located at the following points which can be used to summon assistance: registration, finish, start, safety boats, UTRC, boating area, first aid point, umpires.

Emergency telephones are located at UTRC and on Henley Bridge with mobile phones at registration & UTRC.

All coxes must wear approved life jackets. Racing crews are advised to wear clothing appropriate to the weather conditions and forecast.

The Amateur Rowing Association's/British Rowing (ARA/BR) Row Safe Guide must be complied with.

Coaches or other adults should take responsibility for the capability and safety of junior competitors.

A full copy of the safety plan and risk assessment are available for inspection at registration and on the internet at www.utrc.org.uk.