River Hamble Harbour Authority

Notice to River Users 12 of 2008

Safety on the River Hamble

1. The Harbour Authority does not wish to over regulate the use of the River and wants everybody to be able to enjoy the full range of activities presently enjoyed. No one type of vessel or activity has priority or primacy. The River Hamble is getting busier and greater numbers of vessels of all descriptions compete for a finite amount of space. Larger vessels use the River regularly and at times, especially at its entrance, the River may become congested.

2. The Harbour Authority has a responsibility to manage the risks associated with marine operations to ensure that they remain as low as reasonably practicable. It is appreciated that going afloat can never be free of risk and everybody who uses the River, especially those in control of vessels, has an important role to play to ensure the River remains safe.

The Harbour Authority wish to reiterate the following:

a. The Master, Skipper or person in charge of a vessel, regardless of type or size, remains responsible for its safety. This is not the case where the participants are children, where adults, event organisers or Clubs will have additional responsibilities.
b. All vessels using the River must comply with the International Regulations for the Prevention of Collisions at Sea (COLREGS), Byelaws and Harbour Master’s Directions. It is the responsibility of all those who go afloat to familiarise themselves with these laws. Those who do not comply with the law may be prosecuted.
c. There may be times when it is not safe to participate in a particular activity. Before taking to the water those in charge of vessels, adults responsible for children and those organising events and races need to carefully consider the prevailing weather, tidal and traffic conditions.
d. The location chosen to launch a trailered dinghy or vessel needs particular consideration especially if the launch area is close to a main channel at a busy time and/or there are adverse weather or tidal conditions. Likewise the timing and location of race start needs careful planning by the Clubs involved.

3. There may be times when a planned use of the River has to be adjusted or cancelled. This is common sense and basic seamanship. This is reflected in the modern requirement to assess risks and put appropriate precautions in place.

4. Clubs have a particular responsibility to ensure that events which they organise or facilities which the Club provides are run to acceptable safety standards and that their members are kept appraised of the standards required and any possible dangers involved.

5. The River Hamble Harbour Authority has developed a Code of Practice for Races, Events and Regattas and the Harbour Authority looks to all Clubs to continue to comply with this Code.

Safety on the River Hamble is a joint effort.

The Harbour Authority does not wish to have to impose restrictive regulations.

REMEMBER !
Take sensible precautions and always wear a lifejacket or a buoyancy aid !

A G Clatworthy
Harbour Master River Hamble
Shore Road
Warsash SO31 9FR

2 January 2008