When must paddling stop for lightning, wind or cold water?

Question

Accepted Answer

The CKC Code of Safety (1 April 2025) sets these environmental rules for flatwater paddlers:

Lightning or thunder: on-water participants head immediately for the nearest shoreline and shelter. A 30-minute rule applies: everyone stays sheltered and off the water for 30 minutes after the last thunder or lightning. At competitions the Chief Official enforces this with input from the Safety Officer and Competition Committee.
Wind and rough water: if winds exceed 39 km/h (strong breeze), or conditions look potentially threatening, practice or competition may be stopped, postponed or cancelled. In training the coach decides. In competitions the Chief Official decides, with the Regatta Safety Officer and Competition Committee. Reported gale force winds (62 to 74 km/h) or higher mean immediate postponement of any practice or regatta.
Cold water (below 8 degrees Celsius, measured by the club during training): all participants must wear a Government of Canada approved PFD at all times, train as close to shore as possible, be with others, have told someone their planned activity, and wear clothing suited to the weather and water. Flatwater participants must also be accompanied by a motorboat, unless the provincial or territorial body sanctions otherwise.
Paddling should not occur when cold air temperatures or extreme wind chill put participants at risk.