Top tips for winter boating

1. Icy surfaces: take extra care

• around and crossing over locks
• getting on and off the boat
• using lock ladders

Watch out for ice around the spindle when using a windless. Don’t let it slip off – and never leave it unattended.

Don’t rely on anti-slip surfaces.

2. Get a grip

Wear gloves when handling ropes and frozen metal work. However, remember to take extra care if your hands or feet are cold or if you’re wearing very thick gloves, you lose some of the sensitivity you need to judge safe moves.

3. Avoid hypothermia

Don’t push yourself with ambitious cruising targets. Your body chills rapidly standing at the tiller in cold weather. Wrap up warm, insulate your feet against the cold deck and take shorter turns at the helm. Ensure hot drinks are at the ready.

4. Men at work?

Keep a look out for obstructions across the canal – either from maintenance operations or fallen trees. Check for any planned stoppages before your journey, the latest information can be found here or by phoning canalphone (01923 201401)

5. Ice breaking?

Don’t cruise if the ice is thick. It’s hard work for your engine and may damage the hull of your craft and others. And of course, never be tempted to walk on the canal when it’s frozen.

6. Facilities

Freezing pipes may disrupt supply, so don’t leave topping up and emptying out jobs to the last minute – you might have to cruise on to the next service block or marina. DO PLEASE:

• report problems – don’t assume someone else already has (call 01923 201120)
• turn the tap off properly after use
• avoid creating a mini ice rink around the water point by spilling water

7. Keeping warm

Ensure you have enough fuel in your diesel tanks to maintain the craft and remember to order enough fuel for your stoves to sustain you through the worst of the winter. Check any delays with coal boats particularly if the canal is frozen over.

8. River levels

Thawing snow upstream will quickly raise water levels. Remember this especially when mooring up and navigating low bridges.

9. Brush up on other safety advice

The boater’s handbook is available online here
If you need a new printed copy, contact customer services on 01923 201120.

10. Lastly, if you encounter an emergency on the canal network please call British Waterways on 0800 47 999 47