Staying safe near water

By Jan Thomas

Staying Safe near Water

You can nearly always stand up if you fall in a canal (except in a ship canal or in a lock) – the water is not deep but it is very, very cold and you might struggle in your clothes and the silt.

People used to swim in the canal. There are stories about these adventures on the website. Swimming is not allowed today. Why do you think this is? Do you think the water or the canal is different? What else might be different?

Be aware of where the life buoys are (and, never mess with them – they may save a life).

The ring is quite heavy to throw.  The rope should be attached to the ring and not tangled.

How would you throw a life buoy? How could you use a friend to help? Can you think of at least two reasons for having a rope attached to the ring? Why does the ring have day-glow strips?

What else might you use to help someone if they fell in the water? What else could you do?

Never go in the water yourself to try and save someone.

What are the ladders in locks for?  How deep do you think the ladder will go?

How might a ladder be useful to a boater in a non-emergency situation?  How long is this ladder?

Look at these three pictures of our canal. They show culverts or holes which will be under water when the water levels are restored. Water flows fast through culverts when locks are operated so there are hidden dangers in locks. What are the culverts for?

Be extra careful near locks

Never try to walk on ice on the canal – it is never thick enough to take your weight.

Never put yourself in danger if another person or your dog has gone onto the ice. Always get help from an adult.

Be aware of your surroundings.

Keep an eye on where the water is, if you are walking or cycling. Be especially careful at bridges, where the towpath narrows or has become uneven.

Do not sit too near the edge if you are fishing or looking at the plants or wild life.

Make a note of bridge names, lock names or features in case you need to call for help.

Always go with at least one other person.

Use your common sense and be considerate.

The Cotswold Canals - Enjoy our canal heritage!