The Environment Agency (EA) and Waterways Ireland maintain canal locks, dams, and weirs around the United Kingdom.<\/p>\n
As such, they use several measures to remind people about the dangers of swimming in river networks<\/a> and interior waterways.<\/p>\n Hence, falling into the water, or swimming near structures, may result in serious injury or death in some cases.<\/p>\n Note<\/strong>: Understanding what the safety information, flags, and warning signs mean will help you stay safe around water (e.g. when fishing<\/a> or swimming).<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Traditionally, the summer period sees an increase in people putting themselves at risk by swimming in dangerous places.<\/p>\n Warning signs posted by the Environment Agency outline the potential dangers of underwater structures (weeds, garbage), sudden changes in depths, and strong currents.<\/p>\n Thus, ignoring certain water safety warnings is committing an offence and can result in a court appearance<\/a> (with a \u00a31,000 fine).<\/p>\n Simply put, the Environment Agency prohibits the jumping or diving off any of the assets (water structures) that they own, which may include:<\/p>\n Note<\/strong>: The main section contains more advice and information about boating rules in Great Britain<\/a> and Northern Ireland.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Youngsters can get into trouble when swimming in water that contains hazardous objects. Furthermore, they may not be aware of how cold the water is, or how strong the currents are. These common hazards can catch bathers and swimmers off guard.<\/p>\n Note<\/strong>: Another section explains how to do cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)<\/a> for laypersons. Being trained in lifesaving and resuscitation techniques means you would know what to do first in emergency situations.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Swimming within thirty six (36) metres of Environment Agency (EA) water structure is an offence in England and Wales.<\/p>\n A ‘Public Right of Navigation’ exists on Anglian navigations. Hence, only registered users can pass and repass via water crafts. Even so, it does not grant a permit for swimming.<\/p>\n Note<\/strong>: Another section explains how to apply to volunteer as a coastguard<\/a> and help carry out search and rescue missions along the British shoreline.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n
\nSafety Risks of Swimming in Inland Waterways<\/h2>\n
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\nStaying Safe around British Rivers<\/h2>\n
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\nKeeping Children Safe at Water Structures<\/h2>\n
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\nInformation about Environment Agency Structures<\/h2>\n
\nRelated Help Guides<\/h4>\n