Boat safely on the Broads in winter
Boating on the Broads in winter is a magical experience. But it brings its own hazards and requires special alertness and precautions.
The Broads Authority’s Winter Boating leaflet as part of its Waterways Code gives safety advice and guidance including emergency contact numbers.
Steve Birtles, Head of Waterways Strategy and Safety, said : “ There are different things to consider in winter than in summer as conditions may change rapidly. There are fewer people about on the water so the winter boater and angler may have to be self reliant. This leaflet draws attention to the different hazards they may face and gives guidance on how to cope with them.”
Key tips are:
• Check the weather before you go out and adapt your plans if things change.
• Take care not to slip on icy decks and mooring platforms and avoid navigating through icy water
• When banks are flooded keep to the centre of the river.
• Things to take: a life-jacket, warm clothes, a change of clothes, strong waterproofs, footwear with a good tread, a hot drink, food, a mobile phone, a torch and spare batteries, a VHF radio if you have one.
• Don’t go out alone. Let people know where you are going and when you leave and plan to return.
• Take particular care if you are out in an open boat.
The leaflet can also be obtained free from the Broads Authority’s office at Dragonfly House, 2, Gilders Way, Norwich, NR3 1UB; Tel: 01603 610734 and local fishing tackle shops.
30/11/10
