AREA TRAFFIC PATTERNS
• Rowers heading upstream should stay on New Hampshine side of the river.
• Downstream or southbound rowers should stay on Vermont side of the river.
• Avoid the middle of the river particularly in foggy conditions.
• Keep a watch for rowers not following traffic patterns.
EMERGENCY NUMBERS
Dial 911 for emergency/rescue.
• New Hampshire Police / Marine Patrol (877-642-9700) have authority for the entire river.
• Putney Fire Department (802-387-4372) are first responders based on mutual aid agreements between VT and NH.
RIVER CONDITIONS
Water Levels and Current - If these conditions prevail do not row or do not row alone!
• High water levels and fast current produce dangerous rowing conditions.
• These conditions are often accompanied by cold water tempatures and flood debris.
• High water and fast current can also produce unpredictable and destabilizing eddies near river bend and rock ledges.
Local Hazards
• Be aware of local river hazards.
• These objects may be more or less permanent such as rock ledges and public boat launch areas.
• Other hazards may come and go depending on seasonal activity, water level or recent bank erosion
(docks, mored boats, sunken logs, over hanging trees, shallow spots... etc).
• Look and listen for other boat traffic including power boats, kayaks, canoes and fellow rowers.
Debris
• Expect to find any number of things (logs, branches, lumber, trash...etc) in the river at any time.
• Hitting an object with your boat or oar could cause you to flip.
• Debris is typically found during spring flooding or after intense summer rain storms - During these times use a mirror or frequently check for obstacles.
WEATHER CONDITIONS
• Check the local forecast before leaving home (
NOAA Weather)
• Keep an eye on the weather before and during your row.
• Do not row, or come in immediately if you notice any of the following:
• high water and/or fast current
• thunder or lighting
• high winds and whitecaps
• any weather or water conditions that are to much for your skill level and boat size
Wind
• Generally the shore from which the wind is blowing will provide shelter so that you can row there.
• Be sure the wind is not so high that you cannot make it to a sheltered area.
• If needed stay closer to the dock area.
Thunderstorms
• Come in at the first sight of lightning or sound of thunder
• If you are too far from the docks and the storm comes up quickly, get to shore and seek shelter
• Always take care of people first, secure equipment only if it is safe to do so
• Wait at least a half hour after that last thunder or lightning before you go back on the water
Cold Temperatures
• Wear a hat
• Wear a water/wind-proof outer layer and insulating layers under it
• The inner layers should wick moisture away from your body and remain warm even when wet
Hot Temperatures
• KEEP HYDRATED
• In hot weather, help prevent heat cramps, exhaustion, or stroke, carry water and drink often even if you are not thirsty
• Wear light weight clothing
• Wear sunglasses
• Wear sunscreen
Darkness and Low Light Conditions ~ especially at dawn and dusk
• Be seen and be heard
• Stay close to shore and know where local hazards are at all times
• Be extra alert to other boats, particularly near the dock where traffic is dense
• Use a bow and stern lights if needed
Foggy Conditions
• Use extra caution in foggy conditions
• Stay close to shore.
• Listen for fast moving power boats.
• Carry a whistle and make noise to alert others of your presence.
• Wear bright colored and/or reflective clothing.
Bright Sunlight
• Wear a hat with a brim to shade your eyes
• Wear sunglasses
Rain
• Usually rain is not a problem (as long as there is no thunder and lightning or flooded conditions)
• If the weather is cold and wet dress accordingly
• Bring dry clothing to change into after rowing
