::Click
Here
to go back to the main boating safety & guidance page::
::Throughout the guide you will see symbolic images: please click
here for
an image key::
Caring
for the environment
Please help to keep the waterways pleasant places for everyone who uses them -
and for the wildlife that depends on them.
- Shut
gates behind you
- Keep
to footpaths
- Don't
light fires
- Respect
the wildlife
- And
take your litter away with you
Water
discharge and oily bilges
Don't pump oily water from your bilge into
the waterway. Well-maintained engines shouldn't leak oil, but check the drip tray
under the engine and gearbox regularly. Use biodegradable oils, if possible.
Avoid spilling petrol and diesel. If you do, mop it up - don't use detergents.
The toilets on your boat mustn't discharge sewage into the waterway. There
are pump-out facilities for chemical or closed toilet systems at marinas and sanitary
stations. Use the minimum amount of chemicals to avoid upsetting the sewage treatment
system. If you have a closed toilet system, you may not need to use chemicals
at all - so check your manual.
The wastewater outlet from your sink and
shower is allowed to flow straight into the waterway. But to help keep the water
as healthy as possible, put your cooking waste in the bin, use environmentally-friendly
detergents and be economical with everything you put down the sink.
Report
any pollution or fly-tipping to the Environment Agency pollution hotline on freephone
0800 80 70 60
Litter
Please don't throw any waste overboard - even apple cores take a long time to
rot. Litter can kill wildlife, and it can cause problems for other boaters by
getting tangled in their propellers. There are plenty of waste disposal points
at marinas, moorings and along the waterway.
Wildlife
When you go too fast, your waves can damage banks and sensitive plants.
If
you see your wash hitting the bank, please slow down. Cut your speed and keep
your distance when passing nesting water birds too.
The
non-towpath side of the canal is often especially rich in wildlife, so take especial
care not to disturb plants or animals there. Don't moor on this side unless there
are proper mooring facilities.
Respecting
other waterway users
Waterways tend to be quiet, peaceful places. And
they're for everyone to enjoy - boaters, walkers, anglers, cyclists and others.
Roaring
engines, unnecessary use of the horn, loud music and shouting - they can all be
a real nuisance to other people and wildlife.
Don't
put your mooring stakes or ropes where people could trip over them. And if you're
passing an angler, keep to the centre of the channel unless they ask otherwise.
Reduce your wash, but keep a steady pace. Watch out for signs indicating fishing
matches in the area.
Always
slow down when passing other boats.
Click
Here
to go back to the main boating safety & guidance page
