Water Safety: 8 Top Tips for Boating in Winter

Water Safety: 8 Top Tips for Boating in Winter

Boating around the UK’s inland waterways can remain a peaceful pastime during the winter months. Lesser-crowded waters, stunning frost-laden landscapes and winter wildlife are a wonder to be amongst when tranquillity is at its upmost.

During this time of year, it is imperative for boaters and passengers to be prepared for the increased risks that come with being on or around the water, while decreasing temperatures and lesser daylight are setting in. Those continuing to get out onto the water should be well-equipped with the ‘how-to’ knowledge to avoid or act quickly if any compromising situations arise.

We have complied eight top tips for winter water safety ahead of the upcoming chillier weeks ahead to guide you on your way to a successful winter…

1. Get planning

As we know, as soon as Autumn hits, the dark nights draw in quickly in the UK. With that in mind, checking sun set times should be a priority ahead of a winter cruise, as the difference in just a week can be significant to the hour you should set off back to the marina. If you do get waylaid unexpectedly, a reliable source of light with full battery should be kept on your boat all year, as you don’t know when you could need it.

A weather forecast can make or break boating plans whatever the time of year, but it is especially important to look beyond the sun and cloud icons if cruising during the winter months. Sudden drops in temperature, fog, and storms can be incredibly dangerous, and you do not want to be far from the marina if this does happen.

Most boaters will be aware of lock closures during the winter, mainly due to maintenance works, but also sometimes for unplanned reasons usually aligning with mother nature’s weather plans. Limited or no access to certain waterways happen often in some areas, so be sure to check your local authority notices to check your planned navigation route to save any wasted journeys or potential danger. If you are able to navigate through any locks, take extra care in wet and icy, and make sure you are familiar with lock operation and are therefore comfortable carrying this out during poor weather conditions.

2. Bad weather or bad clothing?

When it comes to dressing for your day on the water, layers are key. Thermal and waterproof clothing is a staple among any other layers you wish to add, but always avoid cotton, as its high absorption properties means, if wet and cold, hypothermia can set in.

Most importantly, all passengers should wear a life jacket while onboard, as cold water shock can incapacitate quickly if you fall overboard. Even the best swimming skills become obsolete when hit with Cold Water Shock and can therefore lead to an increased risk of drowning if not managed correctly. Read the next point on how to manage and treat CWS.

Lastly, non-slip footwear is always essential on a boat, but for the winter months, make sure your shoes or boots are warm with good grip to prevent slips on icy or wet surfaces. Deck boots or equivalent are ideal.

3. Spot the signs

Naturally, cold water shock and hypothermia are a higher risk during the winter, and it is vital that all passengers are aware of how to recognise and manage both.

Cold water shock occurs when you enter cold water suddenly, causing gasping, rapid heart rate, and therefore loss of control leading to potential drowning, while hypothermia can develop if you are exposed to the cold for too long, in or outside of water. Both can be fatal if not treated quickly.

Managing Cold Water Shock

Cold water shock only lasts between 1-2 minutes. It is vital that you keep as calm as possible during this time by controlling your breathing and allowing your body to float into a star-fish shape while your body acclimatises to the temperature. Once it has passed, attempt to get out, removing wet clothing and seeking warmth immediately. (Thermal Blankets should always be kept onboard  for such incidences.) If you are unable to get out of the water straight away, it is advised to use the Heat Escape Lessening Position (H.E.L.P.) to slow heat loss until you can: pull your knees to your chin, keep your legs together, press your arms against your sides and keep your head out of the water, until you have assistance.

Managing Hypothermia

If you or a passenger is displaying the following symptoms, it is likely hypothermia is setting in and should be managed immediately: excessive shivering, pale complexion, cold and dry skin, blue/grey skin/lips, or palms of the hands/soles of the feet, slurred speech, and slow breathing.

Quickly rewarm the person by moving them indoors and changing them into dry clothing, making sure to cover their head, hands, and feet. Focus on warming the centre of the body with a warm, dry compress. Provide food and a sugary, warm drink and keep them awake until you have medical aid, while staying with them at all times.

Consult the NHS website for advice.

4. Boat health check

Checking all the vitals on your boat will be something all boaters should be familiar with doing throughout the year, and these checks are crucial to make sure you are safe and your adventures on the water go as smoothly as possible during the colder months. At the very least, the three main inspections to conduct are:

• Checking any heating systems to ensure they are well-maintained and vented to prevent carbon monoxide buildup, especially if using gas stoves, heaters, or running the engine. It is advisable to always carry a carbon monoxide detector onboard to detect any leaks.
• Make sure antifreeze levels, fuel, and engine oil are checked regularly to avoid any unexpected breakdowns.

For a full boat health check, consult your local engineer, or ask any Tingdene marina office for a recommendation.

5. Avoid the freeze and breeze

During frosty conditions, assessing the water conditions for any frozen waterways is key. Not only can ice damage your boat, you also risk getting trapped in dangerous situations. It is likely the marina waters will freeze first, but even if you can get out of the marina, keep in mind not all waterways may be free of ice.

The volume of water caused by heavy and frequent rain can cause rivers and canals to flood or move faster than usual. Before heading out, check water levels and flow rates, particularly after a heavy down-pour, and plan alternative routes or delay until levels have decreased.

Much like rainfall, windy conditions can bring cruising plans to a halt, particularly during wintertime. Even if boating inland, many rivers and canals are exposed to high winds, leading to challenging handling and an increased risk of capsizing.

6. Essential essentials

Keeping emergency equipment onboard can make all the difference if you find yourself in a difficult situation, and reliable communication devices are critical. Travel with a fully charged mobile phone with a charger and charger packs, as well as a VHF radio to bypass any signal issues if coastal.  

In the event of an emergency, visual and sound signals can help attract immediate nearby attention, so be sure to store flares and whistles in an appropriate place onboard. And it goes without saying that a fully-stocked first aid kit should always be kept onboard. Just be sure to include treatments for cold-related conditions, as mentioned previously.

It is best to always pack as if you are staying for longer than you plan to be.

7. Companion & Communication

Before you head out, be sure to inform a relative, friend or neighbour ashore about your route and expected return time and check in with them regularly during your trip. They may become your life-line if an unexpected emergency unfolds.

8. Stock up

Access to services are likely to be limited during winter months, it is advisable to carry extra fuel, food, and water onboard for during your trip and in the eventuality of an unexpected delay in your journey. Anything non-perishable and warm is ideal. Just don’t forget your favourite mug!

Blankets, spare clothes, and woollens will also come in handy if temperatures drop suddenly or you need to spend the night onboard.

Tingdene Marinas

Our marinas are home to premium facilities for you and your boat, making winter boating as easy as possible, whether residing or continuing to adventure.

Did you know?

• Among our marina offering, we have onsite chandleries, maintenance, fuel, pump out, lifts, hard standing areas, and slipways across selected marinas, to make those winter jobs and day-to-day tasks a little easier.
• Our friendly, welcoming communities can keep you company during the colder months on the marina. From organised events to a friendly hello while out on the pontoons, you’ll feel like part of the family in no time.
• Our marina staff are onsite and on-hand 7 days a week and regularly patrol the site.
• Our marinas are all nestled within tranquil locations, while also having fantastic access to nearby towns and transport links.
• Our toilets and showers across our marinas are warm, clean, and modern and launderettes on selected sites allow you to get laundry done just steps away from your boat.
• We have restaurants on or nearby all our marinas, perfect for socialising or having a night off cooking.
• Our boat sales offices are based at all ten of our marinas, so all your marine needs are in one place.

Contact us today to see how a safe and secure marina can make your winter boating experience as easy as possible.

Stay safe, and happy boating!