Waterborne diseaseDofE Leaders and Participants need to be aware of Leptospirosis and Weil’s Disease. Humans can be infected by direct contact with the urine of animals through skin abrasions, or via the eyes, nose or mouth. Leptospirosis is caused by an infection to an animal, and when the animal recovers it excretes the organisms in its urine into the river or canal. Usually there are flu-like symptoms and in some cases jaundice can develop and this is known as Weil's Disease. Treatment can involve antibiotics although many cases recover without specific treatment. To prevent this disease from affecting humans it is important to cover all cuts with waterproof plasters, wear footwear, avoid capsize drills in suspect water, shower soon after canoeing and if in any doubt about your health then consult a doctor.
Environmental considerations:
Hot sunny weather. Weather forcasts in UK Water levels in England Water levels in Scotland Water sports Code
· Avoid damaging banks and vegetation.
· Do not trespass on private moorings / banks. · Do everything possible to avoid pollution. · Obey the rules of navigation. · Give way to organised competitions. · Keep clear of fishermen and their equipment. · A hail is useful to draw attention to a potential dangerous situation. |
Safety
• Know how to control your craft properly
• Make sure your craft is in good condition and properly equipped • Be familiar with the warning signs and markers for other activities • Keep a good look out for people in the water; slow moving boats and anglers concealed in riverside vegetation • Respect other water users and be willing to give way or stop • Have and display all appropriate licences • Launch and moor at authorised sites • Make sure you are adequately insured • Do not cut across the bows of an oncoming craft • Do not waste water by passing a single craft through a lock • Do not take your craft onto private waters without permission • Do not use private waters to gain access to other waters or property Do not allow fuel, oil, paint, chemicals or detergents to leak or spill into the water or onto the bank
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