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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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Most canals are calm and smooth-flowing, but rivers can catch you out with strong streams or currents. Handling a boat in fast-flowing water takes special skill and good judgement. What's more, the usual risks are magnified - a current makes collisions more likely, for example, and can make it harder to recover a person overboard.

What causes accidents?:

• Inexperience
• Taking on too much of a challenge

Safety essentials:

• Don't cruise in strong stream conditions - tie up securely, watch for changes in water level and adjust your mooring ropes as necessary
• Make sure your boat has enough power to cope with the strength of the stream or tide
• Have a good anchor and chain ready for use
• Steer clear of weirs
• Boating with an experienced skipper is the best way to gain experience
• Look out for big commercial boats and prepare to give way