Navigating the chill

We've had a mild October and November, so the drop in temparture this last few days has been a bit of a shock to the system! As we navigate the winter months, here's some tips to staying safe on the pontoons whilst Jack Frost is in residence...

Slippery surfaces

All it takes is a bit of rain in the day and the temperature to drop below zero overnight to create a thin film of ice over the pontoons. Whenever the temperatures are low, we'll be out salting the main walkways on the pontoons and footpaths around the marina to reduce the risk of slipping on ice, but you can do your part too. Be sure to take it slow and steady and walk with purpose, distributing your weight evenly to avoid slips and falls. Wearing footwear with non-slip soles for extra grip helps too.

On occasion, our berth holders use scooters or bicycles to get about the pontoons. If you're using a wheeled mode of transport to get to and from your boat, take extra care when it's chilly, particularly on corners and on the pontoon access ramp.

Watch your step

When you're wrapped up in more layers than an onion and swaddled up to your eyeballs in hats, hoods, scarves and jackets, it's not always easy to see where you're putting your feet! Whatever you're wearing, make sure you can properly see where you're going and can navigate the pontoons safely. When you're walking to windward with your head down, it's easy to miss the turn at the end of the pontoon and step straight off the end if you're not paying attention!

Deck De-Icing

Boat decks can be slippery at the best of times, but often become ice rinks in winter. Sluice yours down with a bucket of salt water to de-ice them before stepping aboard or first thing in the morning if you've stayed overnight and take extra care when getting on and off the boat. A bucket of sea water over your finger pontoon is also a wise move to eliminate icy patches.

Emergency Preparedness

While we strive to create a safe environment, it's always worth being prepared for the unexpected. Knowing how to cope with cold water shock, keeping a store of old towels and blankets onboard and being aware of the water safety equipment on the pontoons all help in the hopefully unlikely event that you or another berth holder takes an unplanned dip.

Having the marina office number (01305 866190) in your phone contacts so you can alert the marina team quickly in the event of an emergency is also a good idea. If you're onboard your boat, you can also call us on VHF Ch.80.

Boat Prep for Winter

Make sure the cold weather doesn't damage any systems on your boat by ensuring you've prepped her properly for winter, see our handy winter prep guide here.

Stay safe, wrap up warm and enjoy those crisp calm winter days!