16th January 2025
In this guide, we’ll cover the best boating safety tips and the boat safety equipment you need to protect yourself and others while cruising the canals. Let’s dive into how you can make your boating experience both safe and fun!
One of the key safety tips when steering a narrowboat is to be aware of what’s happening around you – on the boat, in the water, and on the banks. Stay alert for other boats, obstacles, or changes in water conditions, especially when navigating through locks or tight spaces. This will help you avoid accidents and react quickly if anything unexpected arises.
Even if you’re a confident swimmer, accidents can happen, especially in cold waters. Life jackets provide buoyancy in case of an unexpected fall into the water. Choose a life jacket that fits properly and meets the required safety standards. There are buoyancy aids available free of charge for both children and adults at all of our marinas (compulsory for children under the age of 18 and non-swimmers).
Make sure you're lined up well in advance when approaching bridges and locks. This allows you to approach at the correct angle and avoid any last-minute manoeuvring. Thinking ahead reduces the risk of collisions or getting stuck, especially in busy or narrow sections of the canal.
Understanding and following the rules of the water is mandatory for preventing accidents. Be aware of the different traffic regulations on the canal and always give way to larger vessels. Follow posted speed limits, adhere to lock instructions, and be considerate of other boats and wildlife. Staying alert and respectful helps keep everyone safe.
Paddle gear fills and empties the lock, with upstream paddles filling it and downstream paddles emptying it.
If using a rack and pinion system, always engage the safety catch before winding the paddles. Keep a firm grip on the windlass and never leave it unattended as a flying windlass can cause injury. Wind the paddles slowly and check the effect of the moving water on your boat. When closing the paddle, lift off the safety catch and wind it down carefully to avoid the windlass spinning off.
Before setting off, always check the weather forecast and water conditions. Bad weather, such as strong winds or heavy rain, can make boating more hazardous. Likewise, if the canal has high or low levels of water, it could be dangerous to navigate. Staying informed about your environment helps you avoid potentially risky situations.
No matter how well you prepare, accidents can still happen. If something goes wrong, staying calm is necessary to think clearly. If someone falls overboard, keep them in sight and throw them a life-saving line. If the boat runs aground or experiences a malfunction, try to secure the vessel before taking further action. Having a plan in place for potential emergencies will help you react appropriately when needed.
Locks are a key part of the canal experience, and it’s crucial to operate them correctly for safety. Before you set off, ABC Boat Hire will explain how to safely operate locks during your handover. Locks are not only a fun part of canal cruising, but proper handling can help reduce the risk of accidents. Practising lock operation before starting your journey is an excellent way to avoid any boating emergencies.
Mooring can also pose a risk if not done correctly. Most visitor moorings on canals are free of charge but be sure to moor safely and not block other boaters or public access. While you can generally moor anywhere on the towpath side, check for any private sites where a fee might apply. Knowing where and how to moor your boat safely reduces the risk of collisions or accidental damage.
For those new to canal boating or looking for more detailed guidance, ABC Boat Hire offers the Boater’s Handbook, which is a comprehensive resource covering everything from navigation tips to lock operation and safety procedures. The handbook provides essential information to ensure a safe and enjoyable boating experience.
You can download the full Boater’s Handbook or watch an informative video on how to operate canal locks safely, use ropes correctly, and much more. This resource is a great way to familiarise yourself with all aspects of boating safety before you hit the water.
By following these boating safety tips and making sure you have the right boat safety equipment, you can enjoy a safe and stress-free canal boating holiday. Remember, safe boating is about preparation, awareness, and staying calm in an emergency. Your safety should always come first. Follow these practices to ensure a fun and unforgettable adventure on your canal boat holiday trip.
