I am by nature not a risk taker. I prefer and feel most comfortable when I am in command of any situation. Some of our friends think that I am a bit overly careful about what we do around the boat. But that's me and the Memsahib is happy to go along with my wishes.
Everyone knows about the checks that have to be made from time to time to make sure that the boat is fit for purpose. Such as the Boat Safety Certificate (BSC) etc. But have you ever wondered why the guidelines have been drawn up and why it may be difficult to comply but it is in your best interests if you do?
The Marine Accidents Investigation Board (MAIB) on their website publish their findings from reported accidents. The incidents make for good safety awareness reminders.
Such as the fatal fire that occurred on board Nb Lindy Lou on the 20th of January 2007. I found this report of particular interest because we have the same sort of solid fuel stove on board Rosie that was involved in this incident.
Report on the investigation of the foundering of the Nb Drum Major with the loss of four lives at Steg Neck Lock near Gargrave, North Yorkshire on 19 August 1998.
Report on the investigation of the foundering of the hire boat Breakaway 5 which capsized on the Norfolk Broads, trapping two of her ten passengers in the upturned hull. On the 19 July 2003.
Report on the investigation of the Flooding and foundering of the Nb Barbary Partridge. On the 11th Aug 2007.
There are other kinds of accidents that occur. Such as a bridge that partially collapsed as a tractor towing manure drove over it, dumping the trailer into the Trent and Mersey Canal at Stenson, near Derby. More than 100 narrowboats and other craft were caught in the resulting traffic jam.
A narrowboat called Abigail, ended up at a 40 degree angle with its bow sticking skywards after its side was caught on a lock cill. The occupants swiftly had to abandon ship and wait for help to arrive as water began to pour inside the boat.
Sometimes its the other way round. This narrowboat fell off the back of a low loader and made the driving conditions a bit difficult. Imagine going home and saying "I was delayed by a narrowboat on the motorway."
Later....
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