British Waterways cares for Britain's historic canals and rivers

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A family enjoying a day out by the waterway

For All Users

Look after your waterway

  • protect the waterway environment - keep noise to a minimum and don't damage the vegetation or banks
  • take home everything that you brought with you, and leave the site as you found it
  • never dump rubbish, sewage or oily bilge water into the water or onto the bank
  • clean up after your dog and keep it under control
  • don't light fires
  • report pollution, fly tipping or fish in distress to the Environment Agency or the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency 0800 807060 (24 hrs)
  • report birds or animals in distress to the RSPCA 0990 555 999 (24 hrs) or the Scottish SPCA 0131 339 0111
  • things can go wrong on waterways. If you see something dangerous such as serious damage to structures or water escaping, freephone 0800 47 999 47 (mobile phone companies may charge at normal rate)
  • make sure you have the right licence or permit to boat, fish or cycle. For more details contact our Customer Service Centre or call 01923 201120
  • seek permission from the local Waterway Office to organise a special event or educational visit.

Take care

  • not all towpaths give smooth, easy walking or cycling
  • if the water appears frozen, never trust the ice to take your weight
  • watch out for concealed mooring pins or ropes across the path beside moored boats
  • the risks are small, but tell your doctor if you become ill within two weeks of getting canal, river or reservoir water into your mouth or an open wound
  • be prepared for changes in weather and local water conditions
  • always keep young children under supervision
  • swimming is prohibited - it's dangerous
  • watch out for warning signs
  • children: don't go alone - go with a friend who can help you if you're in trouble. Always make sure an adult knows where you are going and when you will be back

Learn what to do in an emergency

  • keep calm - think before you act. Don't put yourself in danger
  • phone or send for help
  • if a person or pet falls in, don't jump in. Instead you should reach for them with a stick or throw a rope to them. If this is not possible and you must wade into the water always test the depth with a stick first