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The charity making life better by water

We're providing guidance for boaters as temperatures soar

Following the UK Health Security Agency issuing heat-health alerts across most of the country as temperatures rise this week, we're asking boaters to stay safe and alerting them to some of the problems extreme heat causes for the 250-year-old waterways.

Foxton Locks in the sunshine

The hot, dry summers have a significant impact on our water resources, with the very low rainfall so far this year sadly resulting in a number of restrictions and closures. We're asking boaters, with the help of volunteer lock keepers, to be even more careful than usual to conserve water. Boaters can help by sharing locks where possible and making sure paddles are fully closed after use.

Vulnerable areas

Our swing bridges and other moveable structures are vulnerable in a heatwave, with extreme heat causing expansion of the materials which at worst will cause them to become stuck. We are asking boaters to be careful when using them and to report any problems via the ‘Contact Us' page of our website.

The hot weather is also likely to cause an increase in weed growth which can make navigating difficult and in some cases leave stretches of waterway impassable. The Trust's teams are on standby to address the task of clearing the weed, which can multiply dramatically when the conditions are right.

Water safety

Summer is one of the most popular times for people to go boating, and millions more come to visit Britain's canals and rivers. While it may be tempting to get in the water, shallow water and obstructions beneath the surface can cause injury if people jump in. Deeper water around docks and locks will be very cold, even in the summer, which could cause cold water shock. We are urging everyone to stay out of the water and is reminding boaters to be alert to any people who may not be following this advice and who may be in the water and harder to spot when maneuvering a boat.

The heat-health alert means people are at greater risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Boaters are advised to stay hydrated and find shade where they can, particularly during the hottest parts of the day.

Enjoying the waterways safely

Matthew Symonds, our national boating manager, explains: “Spending time boating is a lovely way to spend a summer's day. However heatwaves can be dangerous, particularly for those with health conditions, older people and children. We want to make sure boaters enjoy the waterways safely this summer and take sensible precautions in the heat.

“The extreme temperatures bring a whole host of challenges, from low water levels to blankets of weeds and potential for failures of some of our moveable structure and bridges, which we'll be out every day tackling. We're asking boaters to work with us on saving water and we thank people for their patience.

“It's also important that people, especially children and teenagers, are aware of the dangers of cooling off by going for a dip. The consequences can be devastating. If boaters do want to swim outside, they can find a nearby open water swimming club by visiting our website.”

Details on the heat-health alert and advice on how to stay safe in the heat are available on the government website.

Last Edited: 12 July 2022

photo of a location on the canals
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