The Environment Agency (EA) is one of the Navigation Authorities. During a flood, the Environment Agency encourages people to protect themselves and plan. Here, Environment Agency staff member Jon Naylor reflects on his experience of owning a boat, and what to do in a flood.
Riding the tide: My experience owning a boat on the River Thames during a flood
Owning a boat on the River Thames has always been a source of joy and tranquillity for me. However, when the threat of a flood becomes imminent, it brings some challenges. Here’s how I prepare and protect my boat during this stressful time.
The Calm Before the Storm
Living near the River Thames, I’ve always been aware of the potential for flooding. When the weather forecast starts to predict heavy rains and rising water levels, I know it is time to put my flood plan into action. Here’s what I do:
- Staying Informed: I signed up for flood warnings from the Environment Agency. This allows me to stay updated on the latest developments and make timely decisions. I also found the live river levels by searching “Check River Conditions and Closures” on Gov.UK website. A useful tool that makes me feel more in control of the situation.
- Creating a Flood Plan: I have a detailed flood plan in place. This included a checklist of actions to take, such as taking extra precautions to secure the boat properly, ensuring all equipment is in good working order, and removing valuable items.
Securing the Boat
As the river levels continued to rise the situation became more urgent, I took the following steps to secure my boat:
- Strong Moorings: I used durable ropes and chains to secure my boat. I made sure the boat was tied to strong trees and not just mooring pegs – also moorings need to be attached to strong points on the boat itself as well as ashore. This was crucial in preventing it from drifting away or getting damaged by debris. It is important that lines are not too tight to allow vertical movement (rise and fall) when river levels change, but this can allow the boat to move slightly in the water – if possible run long lines out as short lines will not allow enough vertical movement.
- Good Condition Mooring Lines: It is critical to ensure that mooring lines are in good condition, free from fraying and knots. Polypropylene lines can degrade in UV light and become brittle and powdery.
- Removing Valuables: I take all valuable items off the boat and stored them in a safe place. This included important documents, electronics, and personal belongings.
Protecting the Boat
To further protect my boat from potential damage, I took additional precautions:
- Sealing Openings: I use waterproof covers and sealants to protect hatches and windows. This helps prevent water from entering the boat.
- Using extra Fenders: I place fenders around the boat to protect it from collisions with floating debris and the land.
- Using extra posts: I erect several extra posts to stop the boat from floating onto the land when it floods, where it can become stuck or capsize when waters levels reduce.
During the Flood
When the floodwaters arrive, I monitor the situation closely:
- Regular Checks: I check on my boat regularly, ensuring it remains secure and undamaged. Safety is my top priority, so I avoid taking any unnecessary risks.
- Staying Safe: I prioritise my safety and the safety of others. I avoid accessing the boat when conditions are too dangerous.
After the Flood
Once the floodwaters recede, I take the following steps to assess and repair any damage:
- Inspecting for Damage: I thoroughly inspect my boat for any signs of damage. Most of the time, my preparations payoff, and there is no damage.
- Cleaning and Drying: I clean and dry the boat to prevent mould and corrosion. This is an essential step in maintaining the boat’s condition.
- Reviewing and Improving: I review my flood plan and make notes on what worked well and what could be improved. For example, I’ve learned important lessons from my experiences. In the future, I’ll make sure someone can look after my boat if I’m not around. This is especially important during long periods of flooding or high river levels.
Reflections
Owning a boat on the River Thames during a flood can be a daunting experience, but with proper preparation and a clear plan, it’s possible to protect my boat and minimise damage. My experience has reinforced the importance of staying informed, having a plan, and taking proactive steps to secure and protect my boat. I hope my story helps other boat owners prepare for and navigate similar challenges.