From Richard Philips
Due to the flood conditions on the Non Tidal reaches of the Thames, It is anticipated that the Tideway will become more crowded than usual.
In order that as many people as possible can enjoy, what may be the only rowable stretch of river for the some time to come, there are some basic rules to be observed.
1) Please do not just turn up. Make prior arrangements with one of the clubs.
2) Please ensure that your coxes and steersmen are fully briefed on where the new (2002) crossing points are and where there are hazards.
3)There will be extended periods when the direction of the stream will vary between Putney and Richmond. When these conditions occur, extreme caution is required. Remember when in doubt, drive on the Right. (Red to Red).
4) In some wind conditions, the Tideway can very become very rough and dangerous. When these conditions occur, no crew should boat without a safety launch.
5) Most Tideway Clubs boat at about 0730-0800 and again at 1030/1100 on Sat/Sun mornings. If you want to avoid the rush hour and have the river to yourself, go out in the afternoons.
6) For reasons of safety, the weight of numbers and the stream conditions, internal and informal club head races and side by side matches should be avoided during peak hours. No event should be run when there is a risk that the stream conditions might reverse over the course of the event.
7) If clubs are seen to flout the safety regulations, their eligibility to enter into the Tideway Heads may be questioned.