Hiring, or even buying, a barge is a popular hobby in the UK, where there are lots of canals to explore. If you are a novice, here are some hints and tips to stay safe when sailing a canal boat:
- Stay out of the way of the boat when it is moving. A moving motorised barge has the ability to crush you.
- Avoid trip hazards along the way. Look out for mooring ropes and bollards along the side of the canal.
- Don’t just off the boat onto the bank. You might land badly or even fall into the canal.
- Be fire safety awareness. Canal boats are wooden and a fire could spread rapidly. Don’t use naked flames inside the boat and make sure fires are extinguished properly nearby.
- Avoid slipping on board the boat. Wear shoes that have good grip and use grab rails to balance yourself when moving around.