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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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There's little that's more peaceful than cruising a stretch of quiet waterway. But in a very few urban areas, things aren't as laid-back as they should be. Some gangs of youths think of the waterway as their own. Keep an eye out for trouble-makers.

The main problems to watch for are missiles being thrown from banks or bridges, and theft.

How to avoid problems:

• Watch out for vandals throwing missiles at tunnel entrances and exits, or dropping objects from bridges
• Keep a low profile to avoid confrontation
  
• Don't moor where there could be a risk
• Know your location in case you need to call for help
• Have a cheap camera and a mobile phone to hand - bandits, especially young ones will be most scared of you taking their pictures (with flash so they see you taking the picture) and also phoning the police - don't try to 'fight' back.
• Keep valuables out of sight