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To make using the canals of Britain safe and enjoyable we advice you to follow the guidance that we have for you in this section.

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Some tunnels on the UK waterway system can be narrow with only room for one-way traffic & no passing or they can be wide enough for two boats to pass & have a towpath at the same time.

Before entering a tunnel you should check for instructions, entry times or traffic lights at the tunnel entrance.

Switch on your headlight, navigation lights (many boats are not equiped with navigation lights, but this does not matter) and some interior lights. We suggest that whoever's steering should also have a waterproof torch with them.

If it's a one-way tunnel, make sure there's no boat inside coming towards you. If there is a boat coming towards you before you enter the tunnel wait your turn & stay well clear of the entrance.

Most of the tunnels can be damp, so put on your waterproofs. As you go into the tunnel, sound one long blast on your horn. The skipper can steer by looking at one side of the tunnel (normally the right if it is a two way traffic tunnel) and keep to a moderate speed. Move the tiller or wheel as little as possible - it's a common illusion to feel the boat's being pulled to the side.

If it's two-way traffic, keep a look-out for oncoming boats and pass slowly on the right.

Safety tips:

• Keep your crew and passengers inside the boat (do not let them lean out of the boat, stick their arms / head / legs out or any other such things.
• Make sure you have enough fuel to get you through the tunnel.
  
• If you break down in a tunnel, switch off the engine.
  
• Don't smoke or use cookers and heaters.
  
• Turn off any gas.
  
• Help the steerer by stopping inside lights from shining on the back of the boat or shining at the steerer, dazzling him.