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Flood Information |
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Floods can happen at any time, but are generally restricted to the winter period. The Thames like any river have a wide range of conditions (see "Is the River safe.." on the F.A.Q's page). In England and Wales one of the best ways of finding more information about the extreme state of the river is by contacting the Environment Agency's: Floodline on 0845 98 1188. (plus, for hearing impaired people, there is a minicom service available on 0845 602 6340). |
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The Floodline information number is staffed seven days a week from 8am to 8pm (weekdays) and 10am to 4pm (weekends). Also there are numerous general and specific broadcast warnings - Including TV, radio, teletext (and shortly via the internet, address supplied when available). There are also more direct warnings like Voice Messaging and sirens. If in doubt about river conditions, find out as much information as you can before venturing out on the waterways. |
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Miscellaneous |
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Essential Rules of Navigation Obey the rules of Navigation and the bylaws, contact the Navigation Offices for a copy. Steer on the right when it's safe and practical. Avoid turning near to bridges or in front of other vessels. Keep a sharp lookout ahead and stern for any possible dangers. If in doubt STOP. Take care when overtaking. In the vicinity of bridges or sharp bends - a craft going upstream must give way to one coming downstream. |
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Sound Signals and Lights Skippers should give notice of their intentions using the following sound signals: 1 blast - going to starboard (right) 2 blasts - going to port (left) 3 blasts - going astern (backwards) 4 blasts (pause) 1 blast - turning right round to starboard 4 blasts (pause) 2 blasts - turning right round to port 1 long 2 short blasts - unable to manoeuvre |
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Lights must be shown when navigating between sunset and sunrise or in restricted visibility as follows 1. A bright WHITE light on the mast or staff at the bow, not less than 1.2 metres (4 feet) above the hull. 2. A GREEN light on the starboard side (right). 3. A RED light on the port side (left). 4 A WHITE light on the stern (back). |
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If you have any questions or observations contact Nik - E-mail : lockhopper@lineone.net Last updated 12th November 2000 |