1. Carry out a pre-visit to your chosen site
This will help you to work out how to move your group safely around the site, where the best access points are, what the towpath conditions are like and how long it will take to get to different locations.
Check whether you have mobile phone reception. How will you travel? Are there parking and toilet facilities? Is it accessible for a coach?
2. Complete your risk assessment
As required by your school or organisation covering the hazards and your safety measures. You can look at our risk assessment as a guide.
3. Tell us when and where you would like to visit
By completing this form. We can then help you to plan a safe and enjoyable visit. We can send you water safety booklets and we may also be able to support you with a local volunteer.
4. Plan your visit
Follow your school or organisation guidelines on how many adults you need to accompany your group. Make sure all your adults are briefed before the visit and that you have somebody responsible for first aid. Carry a mobile phone, know who to contact in an emergency and your location (postcode or name of nearest road with access). Carry a recovery aid (such as a length of rope) to help somebody in an emergency. Make sure you have parental permission for the children in your group, and ensure the children are wearing suitable clothing and footwear.
5. Use the Waterside Safety Challenge
Before your visit, make sure your children know how to be safe near water. Teach the water safety message ‘Stay Away From the Edge' and try out our Waterside Safety Challenge.
6. On the day
Check the weather forecast and postpone the visit if necessary. Remind the children of the safety message and have fun! Don't forget to share your visit on our Facebook page or send us a Tweet!
