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.

#RespectTheWater pic.twitter.com/0Nsht2yQ7c

— Environment Agency (@EnvAgency) July 20, 2024

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.

1/2 pic.twitter.com/7x4tLc14qA

— EnvAgencyAnglia (@EnvAgencyAnglia) September 9, 2024

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.

#FloatToLive if you get into difficulty.#RespectTheWater pic.twitter.com/i6Pb6gKqIJ

— Environment Agency (@EnvAgency) August 22, 2024