Frequently Asked Questions (with answers, really! ;)

1. What is the clubs mailing address?

   For all snail mail (via Canada Post), please send completed membership forms, fees, photos, letters, etc to:

        P.O. Box 35127, R.P.O Westgate,
        Ottawa, ON, 
        K1Z 1A2 
   

2. What is the annual membership fee and how can I pay it?

   Annual membership fees can be paid in cash at meetings or by cheque/cheques made payable to Touring Kayakers Ottawa-Outaouais. No post-dated cheques please.

   Individual (18+)	$25
   Family	$40

3. What is the term of the annual membership?

   January to January.

4. Why is TK2O incorporating and purchasing liability insurance?

   The organizers of any event, informal or not, take on liability in so doing. By incorporating and purchasing liability insurance event and trip organizers, club executive members and regular club members and guests of the club, are covered by this insurance should someone become seriously injured. The club will obtain insurance through the Ontario Recreational Canoeing Association (ORCA) which offers our type of organization liability insurance under their umbrella liability insurance policy. This policy provides Commercial General Liability for clubs* non-sanctioned or authorized activities as approved by the Insurance Company. This policy will also provide $1,000,000 Directors and Officers Liability for the clubs* Board of Directors. The deductible for this policy is $500.00.

5. Why is TK2O asking for a membership fee and how is it spent?

   The club is asking for a membership fee to cover various expenses (annual ORCA membership, $75; annual liability insurance ~$500; incorporation $150 (one time fee); P.O. box; banking fees; website support; club promotion; event costs; potentially club equipment). The club treasurer will make an annual financial audit presentation and will be able to answer financial questions at meetings.

6. Why is TK2O asking me to fill in a waiver form?

   The waiver of liability forms are a requirement imposed by the insurance company. This form really represents informed consent for participation in the sport and acknowledgement of the inherent risks of the sport.

7. What is TK2O's privacy policy?

   Touring Kayakers Ottawa-Outaouais (TK2O) and its agents require the collection of certain personal information to maintain its membership records. Personal information is collected via this membership form. Membership lists and information will be made known to the current executive only and that no use of the list will be released to anyone outside the expressed authorization of the member. Sometimes as a part of club benefits, TK2O may have discounts at local stores, however, if you do not wish to have your personal information disclosed, then you may not be able to obtain the discount on your purchases.

8. Must I submit a medical information form with my membership application and where will it be kept?

   This is optional. But, it's preferred to have one on file.

   We want everybody to enjoy the sport but, should the unfortunate happen, be prepared to properly assist you and avoid unpleasant outcomes. The disclosure of medical conditions which may occur during a paddling event is for your benefit and a courtesy to others for group safety. Any injuries or illnesses that occur during a paddling event have the potential to affect the safety of all padders and others may need to help rescue you under adverse conditions.

   If you have a medical condition that could endanger the safety of yourself or your fellow paddlers, it is your responsibility to voluntarily make this infomration available to the trip leader/organizer. The trip leader/organizer may ask you to fill out the Statement of Health form.

   The form can either be submitted to the club or a waterproofed copy carried in your life jacket pocket and the information disclosed to the appropriate trip participants and leaders.

   The forms submitted with your membership will be held by the club secretary. The forms will be made available to trip leaders and people trained to administer first aid. People given access to such information are expected to treat it with discretion.

   Your safety and well-being are your responsibility! On all paddles, day paddles or overnight trips, if you have a medical condition which may occur during a paddling event, it is your responsibility to ensure that at least one other person knows what that condition is and the location of any emergency medications (i.e. epi-pens). Informed persons should include the trip leader. It is a good practice for all paddlers to carry a waterproofed Statement of Health Record form in you life jacket pocket.

9. Can I paddle with other TK2O club members if I have little or no paddling skill or safety training?

   Yes. One of the goals of the club is to introduce people to the sport and to provide a forum to improve your skills. For your safety, you must inform a trip/event leader of your skill level. The trip/event leader should help you determine if your skill is sufficient to participate given the current water conditions, trip characteristics, and hazards. More experienced padder can give you pointers and steer you towards gaining skills through professional skill-building resources. Just ask, most padders are happy help.

10. What are the executive and non-executive positions?

    For that information, please see the webpage describing all that information.