Health and Safety
The Severn can be dangerous and has been the site of many accidents. As for many rivers, it is most dangerous when there are strong currents, high water levels or cold weather conditions. Don’t take risks and never underestimate the power of the river. The Severn has one of the largest water flows in England and wales, after heavy rain it can rise at a rate in excess of 1 metre per hour in the upper reaches. Therefore, when in flood it is recommend not to go near it.
General guidance for all river users
Daily river level information the following website will give you a live update on the rivers levels of the Severn. Make sure this is checked before you take to the water. riverlevels.uk.
Safety guidelines
Although common sense is the most important requirement, the risk of accidents can be minimised by following these simple guidelines:
- Wear an approved buoyancy aid or life jacket and helmet;
- Inspect rapids before ‘shooting’ them;
- You should never canoe alone, but if you must, let someone know where you are going, your estimated time of arrival, and let them know when you have arrived;
- Make sure that you can swim at least 50 metres in the type of clothing you’ll be wearing;
- Carry a repair kit for your canoe, and make sure that you know how to use it;
- Make sure that your canoe has built-in buoyancy or has inflated bags inside to prevent it sink-ing if you capsize;
- If you wear glasses, tie them with a piece of string around the back of your head in case you capsize;
- If you have not canoed before, make sure someone with experience goes with you;
- If your canoe has not been used for some time, ensure that it is river- worthy.
- Be mindful of weirs and other man made constructions before embarking on your activity.
- Never canoe over a weir.
You should learn how to cope if an accident occurs. Ideally you should be able to:
- Help somebody who is in difficulty in the water or has capsized
- Give first aid
- Revive somebody who is unconscious
Most of the above may seem obvious, but it is surprising how often they are overlooked and lead to a great deal of trouble, not only for the individual, but also for other people. Visit this website to become first aid trained.
App for water levels on the River Severn
Do not swallow river water
Wash hands before eating and drinking
Leptospirosis (Weils Disease)
Leptospirosis is spread in the urine of infected animals – most commonly rats, mice, cows, pigs and dogs.
You can catch it if:
- Soil or freshwater (such as from a river, canal or lake) containing infected urine gets in your mouth, eyes or a cut – usually during activities like kayaking, outdoor swimming or fishing
- You touch an infected animal’s blood or flesh – usually from working with animals or animal parts
Symptoms
The symptoms of leptospirosis usually appear within 5 to 14 days after you become infected by Leptospira bacteria, reports the New York State Department of Health. But symptoms can develop anywhere from 2 to 30 days after infection, with an average of 10 days after initial exposure. The presentation of leptospirosis is highly variable. In most cases of leptospirosis, your symptoms will be relatively mild. For example, you may experience:
- Fever
- Chills
- Muscle aches
- Headaches
- Cough
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
Prevention
- Cover all cuts and abrasions with waterproof plasters
- Always wear footwear to avoid cutting feet
- Avoid capsize drill or rolling practice is suspected waters
- Where possible, shower soon after canoeing
Sponsors
The current phase of the project is funded by the Canoe Foundation and Sport England.
