Record boat break-downs

WITH the warmer weather prompting more boaters on to the waterways, River Canal Rescue (RCR) has recorded a new record in call-outs for break-downs.

During June and July the breakdown and assistance compay undertook an average of 140 rescues a week, with 190 on one particular week—17% higher than its 2013 equivalent average of 122, with RCR Managing Director, Stephanie Horton, commenting:

Basic checks

"The heat wave certainly encouraged people to take to the water earlier in the season and in many cases, they and their boats have not been out for a while and appear to be over-looking the basic checks.

"A small amount of preparation, such as; ensuring batteries are in a good condition, having a fuel service and checking the condition of cables could make the difference between making an unscheduled stop and carefree cruising."

Grounding

In some areas, owing to the lack of water in rivers, the company is warning of the danger of grounding, with the River Canal Rescue having attended an average of two call-outs a week, instead of the usual one a month.

Craft on the Thames, the Fens and rivers in general appear particularly at risk.