1. What this is
I want to take part in an activity run or supported by Winyah Rivers Alliance (“WRA”). This may be a guided paddle, a river or shoreline cleanup, a walk or run, an educational program, or a community event (the “Activity”). The event I am signing up for is named on this form. This release covers that event, including set-up, travel to and from the launch or event site, and clean-up. I am taking part voluntarily.
2. The risks I understand and accept
Outdoor and water activities have risks. They include, for example: cold or fast-moving water, currents, tides and boat wakes; changing weather such as heat, storms and lightning; sun exposure; slippery or uneven ground and boat ramps; submerged or floating objects; low branches; wildlife and insects; tipping over or capsizing; being far from help; and the actions of other people, boats and equipment. Other risks may not be listed here or may not be known or foreseeable.
I understand that these risks can cause serious injury, illness, property damage, drowning or death, even when WRA, its guides and everyone involved use reasonable care. I choose to take part and I accept these risks.
3. Life jackets and swimming
On the water, I will wear a properly fitted life jacket (personal flotation device, or PFD) at all times. I will tell WRA honestly how well I can swim. I understand that being a strong swimmer does not remove the risks in section 2. If I cannot swim well, I will tell the event lead before the Activity starts.
4. Following instructions
I will listen to and follow the instructions of WRA staff, guides and event leads. I understand that WRA may change or cancel the Activity, or ask me to stop taking part, for safety or weather reasons, and I will follow that request. I will stay with my group and tell an event lead right away about any hazard, injury or problem.
5. Alcohol, drugs and fitness
I will not take part while affected by alcohol, cannabis or other drugs that could affect my judgment or coordination. I am physically able to take part in this Activity. I know of no condition that would make it unsafe for me to take part, except any I have told WRA about on this form or told an event lead.
6. Medical information and emergencies
I have given WRA an emergency contact. I understand that WRA staff and volunteers may not be medically trained and that help may take time to arrive. If I am hurt or ill and cannot decide for myself, I authorize WRA to call for emergency help and arrange medical care for me, and I agree that I am responsible for the cost of that care. Any health information I choose to share on this form is optional.
7. Release of claims
In exchange for being allowed to take part, I release and agree not to sue WRA, its board members, staff, volunteers, guides, event partners and sponsors, and the owners and managers of the land, water and facilities used for the Activity (together, the “Released Parties”) for any injury, illness, death, or loss of or damage to my property that arises from my taking part, including claims based on the ordinary negligence of any Released Party. I make this release for myself, my heirs and my legal representatives, to the fullest extent the law allows. It does not release anything that the law does not allow to be released.
WRA is not responsible for lost, stolen or damaged personal items, such as phones, keys and gear.
8. Electronic signature, records and general terms
I agree to sign electronically. Typing my name and drawing or typing my signature on this form is my legal signature, just as if I had signed on paper. WRA will email me a copy, and I may ask WRA for a paper copy. WRA may keep a record of when and how I signed, including the date, time, internet address and the version of this release. If any part of this release cannot be enforced, the rest stays in effect. This release is governed by the law of the state where the Activity takes place.
9. If a child under 18 is taking part
This section applies only if a child under 18 is taking part. I am the parent or legal guardian of each child listed on this form and I have the authority to sign for them. I have read this release, I have explained it to each child in a way they can understand, and I consent to their taking part. For each child, I agree to sections 1 through 8 as if they applied to the child and to me, including the release in section 7, to the fullest extent the law allows. I remain responsible for my child’s behavior and for supervising them as WRA directs. If I am under 18 myself, my parent or legal guardian signs this form for me.
10. Read before you sign
I have read this release and I understand it. I understand that I am giving up legal rights. I am signing voluntarily, and no one has made promises to me that are not written here.
WRA Participant Release | Version 1.0 | October 2026