Stay Away from Weirs and Sluices

Weirs, locks and sluices can be very dangerous – once trapped in them it can become impossible to escape

These videos from the Environment Agency explains why all rowers – no matter how experienced they are – should stay away from weirs and sluices (as well as locks and bridges) to keep themselves and others safe.

Never climb, play or swim in or around sluices. They open and close automatically without warning and when they do, they will sweep you away in a dangerous rush of water.

This video from the Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service demonstrates why swimming near a weir is so dangerous.

If you see someone in trouble in the water, the Environment Agency’s advice is:

  1. Call 999
  2. Tell them to float on their back
  3. Throw them something that floats.

And as explained in the next video about the effects of cold water shock, if you find yourself in trouble in the water:

  1. Stop swimming
  2. Lean back and float #FloatToLive
  3. Gain control of your breathing and then assess whether you can rescue yourself.

More in this section

Further Safety Guidance

Additional guidance on safety-related topics

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HRSA Monthly Report Archive

Monthly reports from British Rowing's Honorary Rowing Safety Advisor (HRSA)

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Rowing Safety Contacts

A list of all national and regional Rowing Safety Advisers

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RowSafe

Clubs have a responsibility to provide information, education and training about safety, and individuals have a responsibility to find out, learn, question and put this into practice.

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