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A Good Practice Guide for paddle sports on the Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation

Before You Start

  • Make the right decisions before you use a Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP), Canoe or Kayak and consult a reliable weather forecast.
  • Consider taking a lesson with a reputable paddle sport organisation.
  • Only go on the water if the flow rate is normal, if the river is NOT in flood and if the towpath is accessible. If in doubt contact Essex Waterways Ltd. in advance on 01245 226245 or visit essexwaterways.com
  • Only go on the water if the wind is light and storms are not in place or forecast.
  • Do not go on the water if you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • Consider use of appropriate wetsuit or dry suit.
  • Take sufficient drinks – wear sun cream, cover up with appropriate clothing – take breaks.
  • Wear appropriate wet shoes.
  • Cover up open cuts, etc, with waterproof plasters.
  • Only go on the water during daylight hours.
  • Do not take babies or infants on the SUP, Canoe or Kayak with you.
  • Put your phone in a waterproof bag – you can buy them from the Paper Mill office.

Getting on and off the SUP/Canoe/Kayak

  • Wear a buoyancy aid and/or use an appropriate SUP leash.
  • Access the water from firm and level ground or paddle sport landing stage.
  • For a SUP start off on knees while in close proximity to any hard objects.

On the water

  • Avoid swallowing any river water.
  • Do not jump or dive from a SUP, Canoe or Kayak.
  • Do not jump or dive onto a SUP, Canoe or Kayak from a boat, bank or bridge.
  • Always paddle on the right-hand side of the river.
  • Keep at least 2 x craft lengths from boats/bank/lock gates/weirs.
  • Be vigilant for anglers and pass wide and slow where possible.
  • Transit through mooring areas only, do not loiter in or around boats and moorings.
  • Do not touch/pick up any dead animal carcasses.
  • Give swans a wide berth and plenty of space.
  • Give any cattle on the bank plenty of space. Do not go onto the bank where cattle are present.

LOVE YOUR WATERWAYS

Britain's waterways are vital; together we can campaign for them now and for the future.