On and around water

• Learn to spot and keep away from dangers: you may swim well in a warm indoor pool, but that does not mean that you will be able to swim in cold water outdoors
• Never swim alone in case you need help
• Don’t drink alcohol when undertaking water related activities, it impairs judgement and your ability to swim
• Avoid walking routes near water if you have been drinking alcohol
• Don’t dive or jump straight into open water, this can cause potentially fatal cold water shock even on the warmest day

• If you find yourself unexpectedly in the water, don’t panic, extend your arms and legs out and float on your back until the effect of cold-water shock pass
• Do not risk tides, if you do not know the times, ensure you are aware of tide times before you visit a location
• Always take extra care around the water’s edge, cliff faces and open mudflats
• Always follow the special flags (red flags on beaches mean it is unsafe to enter the sea) and notices that may warn you of danger – details can be found on the RNLI  website.
• Children should always be accompanied by an adult, an adult can point out dangers or help if somebody gets into difficulty
• Always tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back
• You may be able to help yourself and others if you know what to do in an emergency – if you see someone in difficulty, tell somebody, preferably a lifeguard if there is one nearby, or go to the nearest telephone, dial 999, ask for the Police at inland water sites and the Coastguard at the beach

The coastline and near rivers

We are often called to support our RNLI and Coastguard partners in rescuing members of the public who have become stuck in mud near to our coastline or rivers.

We ask that before you venture out, make sure that you are aware of our guidance on how to stay safe:

• Always follow local warning signs
• Don’t go out alone into unknown areas
• Be aware of tide times and currents
• Take a mobile phone with you
• Stay on footpaths and keep dogs under control
• If you come across someone stuck in mud – call 999 – don’t enter the mud to help them

If you do find yourself in danger:

• Try to stay calm and avoid movement
• Spread your weight to stand evenly
• Call loudly to attract attention
• Call 999
• And discourage others from attempting to rescue you

Paddle Safely

Paddling has become an increasingly popular pastime but whilst having fun, make sure you paddle safely and responsibly. The below resource from the RNLI and partners can help…

Working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are an essential fire safety requirement.

In the event of a fire

• Fire at sea – first call the Coastguard on either VHF ch16 or 999
• Fire alongside in harbour or a marina – first call the Fire Service ‘999’
• Give your location wherever possible
• Act quickly and make for the nearest landing
• If you have one, use a fire extinguisher, if not use water from over the side.
• Never allow fire to block your exit
• Get everyone not involved in fighting the fire off of the boat
• If the fire is close to a gas cylinder, turn off the valve, disconnect the cylinder and remove it to a safe place
• If the fire continues to grow leave the boat

Equipment you need to fight a fire

All firefighting equipment must be maintained in good condition and kept readily accessible for use in an emergency

All vessels must carry specific firefighting equipment:

• Dry powder extinguisher
• Foam extinguisher
• CO2 extinguisher – do not operate in an occupied cabin
• Nine litre bucket
• Fire blanket 0.75 m x 0.75 m

Gas cylinders

• Make sure that the valve is switched off before you disconnect the cylinder
• Make sure that any new cylinder is properly connected before you switch the valve on
• Make sure the full cylinder is securely fixed into position
• Make sure the LGR regulator is compatible with your appliances

Before taking on fuel

• Stop the engine
• Turn off all heating, cooking and lighting appliances and extinguish all naked flames and smoking materials
• Close all hatches, doors and portholes
• Ensure the tap between the tank and engine is switched off
• Avoid overfilling, check the tank with a dipstick

After taking on fuel

• Secure the tap tightly
• Ensure that fuel has not overflowed or leaked
• Mop up any spillages
• Ventilate thoroughly before starting the engine or using naked flames/lights

Spare fuel

• Petrol should not be carried on board in portable containers if at all possible
• Where containers cannot be avoided only containers designed for this purpose should be used
• Containers should only be decanted or opened in a well ventilated area
• Containers should always be secured by a safety strap or quick release device

Cooking

• Never leave a cooker or appliance unattended
• Hatches and portholes that may cause a through-draught should be closed
• Keep spare/empty containers in the open air

Leaks

• Stop the engine and extinguish all naked flames
• Put out cigarettes, do not operate electrical switches
• Turn off petrol, shut off cock and gas cylinder valve
• Ventilate the affected space as much as possible, consider use of bilge pump
• Tie up or anchor at a safe distance from other craft
• Evacuate the vessel
• Warn others in the vicinity
• Call the Fire Service ‘999’ and Coastguard on ‘VHF Channel 16’

General considerations

• Avoid smoking below deck
• Check bunk cushions conform with fire retardant material
• Consider fitting a domestic smoke detector
• When evacuating due to a fire, ensure all crew are wearing life jackets