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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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Boat fires and explosions are extremely rare - probably because most people take the same sensible precautions as they do at home. But there are a couple of extra risks to be aware of.

The bottled gas used for cookers, fridges and heaters is heavier than air and, if there's a leak, it'll lie in the bottom of the boat. There, it only takes a spark to ignite.

Petrol vapour is also heavier than air. If you smell petrol strongly, follow the gas leak drill - see Hey! I can smell gas on this page.

And lastly, you need to watch out for fumes from cooking and heating equipment or the engine building up in the boat. Carbon monoxide is extremely poisonous. Symptoms include headaches, tiredness, sickness and dizziness, and are often mistaken for flu.

Re-fuel outboard tanks ashore, well away from the boat

What causes accidents?

• Dangerous equipment
• Poor ventilation
  
• Not knowing how to refuel safely

Safety essentials:

• Boat-owners should get their equipment serviced and checked regularly
• Switch off appliances when you're not using them
  
• Keep ventilators open and free of obstructions
• Learn how to refuel safely
• Always use the bilge blower before you start the engine on a petrol- engined boat
• If you're leaving a solid fuel burner alight overnight, open a window to give you extra ventilation
• Make sure you know where your fire extinguisher is - and how to use it

Safe re-fuelling of petrol-engined boats:

• Stop the engine
• Put out all naked flames including pilot lights
  
• Evacuate the boat
• Petrol vapour is highly flammable. It's also heavy, particularly in warm weather. Think about where it might end up. Protect cabins and cockpits by closing doors and raising awnings
• Avoid petrol spillage
• Never decant petrol on board, in a lock or next to another boat
• Re-fuel outboard tanks ashore, well away from the boat