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Water Safety

Winter water safety

  • Never go onto frozen water under any circumstances
  • Children and pets are particularly at risk when tempted to play on the ice
  • Pets should be kept on leads when near to frozen water and owners should refrain from throwing objects for them to retreive

The Water Safety Code

During the school holidays an increasing number of children put themselves at risk of drowning.

To keep yourself safe, when you are in, on or beside water, always follow the Water Safety Code.

Spot the dangers! Water may look safe, but it can be dangerous. Learn to spot and keep away from dangers. You may swim well in a warm indoor pool, but that does not mean that you will be able to swim in cold water.

The dangers of water include:

  • Hidden currents
  • It can be deep
  • No lifeguards
  • Very cold temperatures
  • It is difficult to estimate depth
  • Water pollution may make you ill
  • It can be difficult to get out (steep slimy banks)
  • There may be hidden rubbish like shopping trolleys or broken glass

Please refer to the National Water Safety Signs to help you keep safe near open water.

For further information and advice on what you should do if you do get into trouble in open water or falling through ice, please visit the sites below:

http://www.rlss.org.uk/

http://www.rospa.com/leisure-safety/water/advice/

Boat fire safety

Fires on boats have killed 30 boaters in the last 20 years. Most fires are preventable; follow our tips and advice on how to protect your boat and crew from fire, and what to do should a fire break out. The video below is courtesy of Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service:

Boat safety advice

  • Fit a bubble type gas leak indicator in the LPG cylinder locker
  • Fit a Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarm suitable for marine use that meets the EN50291-2 standard
  • Keep the cooking area clean for safety
  • Keep cabin ventilation clear to prevent a build-up of toxic CO
  • Check stoves, flues and surrounding areas for damages and repair or replace immediately
  • Have your chimney swept regularly
  • Use a proper, stable ashtray for cigarettes
  • Take extra care with lit candles, don’t leave them unattended and only use secure holders
  • Make sure you check and maintain your boat’s fuel, gas and electrical systems on a regular basis
  • Have gas and electric appliances properly installed and serviced routinely by competent fitters
  • Make an emergency plan with everyone on board before you set out
  • Have enough life jackets for everyone on board, and keep them in good condition
  • Only consider tackling a fire with an extinguisher or fire blanket if you are confident using them; if in doubt, evacuate the boat
  • If you are inland or moored near to land and you have a fire, move everybody off the boat and call 999 immediately
  • If you are off-shore and you have a fire, move as far away from the fire as you can on deck, get everybody into life jackets and call for help
    visit the Boat Safety Scheme website for further advice and guidance

Visit our home fire safety page for advice on how to check your home. We have a checklist available to download and you will also find how to apply for a visit should you need more help.

 

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