Safety

The society accepts no liability for any injury or damage that anglers suffer or cause.  

It is a requirement of fishing on R&DAS waters that anglers read, understand and follow these safety guidelines. 

All anglers should make themselves aware of the risks they face on the society’s waters. Anglers should carry out their own risk assessment at each visit and take appropriate action to ensure their own safety and that of others. This should include, but not necessarily be restricted to, an assessment of the items listed below.

Drowning 

Water is inherently dangerous and there is always a risk of drowning. It is recommended that a buoyancy aid is always worn when on, in or near water. 

Paths and Banks 

These may be unstable, irregular and/or slippery. Beware of undercuts, irregularities and instability in banks; especially near deep water. 

Fences 

Avoid crossing fences, walls and similar obstructions, except at approved access points. These obstructions may be unstable and have sharp edges that can cause cuts, or have a risk of trapping body parts. Where possible use stiles and gates, but be aware that these may be unstable and in poor conditions with risks of collapse, cuts or injury. Even when in good condition there is a danger of tripping and falling. Be especially careful of barbed wire. 

Wading 

Take particular care when wading in deep or fast water and on irregular or slippery bottoms. It is recommended that you use a wading staff and a floatation device at all times. River levels can rise very rapidly and unpredictably in response to distant weather conditions. 

Power lines 

Avoid fishing in the vicinity of power lines. Carbon fibre fishing rods are excellent conductors of electricity. Even if the rod does not touch the cables the electricity may arc over considerable distances. If a fishing rod is used in proximity of a power line there is a significant risk of a fatal electric shock. 

Casting 

Always show consideration to others users on the bank. Avoid contacting anyone with your back-cast. It is recommended protective headgear and eyewear is worn when fishing. 

Hooks / Flies 

Hooks easily penetrate the skin and can cause significant injury and carry germs. Caution should be used when casting or when handling hooks. Rusty hooks should be avoided. 

Weighted Flies 

Weighted flies can be difficult to control when casting. Extreme caution should be exercised when casting weighted flies to ensure they do not cause injury to yourselves or others. 

Trees 

Fishing under trees can be unsafe in windy conditions. Beware of falling branches. 

Animals 

Bulls can be dangerous, as can bullocks and cows with calves. Avoid all animals where possible and treat with caution. 

Weil’s Disease 

This is potentially fatal and can be present in water that has been contaminated by rat’s urine. Never put wet lines in your mouth or any other items of tackle that has been in the water. 

Sewage 

There may also be a risk in some waters from sewage effluent. 

When fishing make sure you do not eat or drink on the bank without cleaning your hands.

Carry anti bacteria wipes.

Wear waterproof plasters on any cuts or abrasions. Never put wet lines in your mouth or any other items of tackle that has been in the water. 

Avoid Contact: Minimise direct contact with the water as much as possible. DO NOT TIGHTEN FISHING KNOTS WITH YOUR TEETH!!!!!

 Wash Hands: After handling fish or any fishing equipment, thoroughly wash/disinfect your hands.

Use Disinfectants: Disinfect any cuts or wounds immediately and avoid submerging any open wounds in the polluted water.

Be Aware of Symptoms: Be vigilant for symptoms of bacterial infections such as gastrointestinal issues, skin irritation, or fever. Seek medical attention if you experience any concerning symptoms.

Wash and thoroughly clean fishing equipment, waders, and boots to prevent the spread of bacteria to other areas.

Stay Informed: Keep yourself updated on any advisories or warnings issued by local health authorities regarding fishing in polluted waters.

Anglers can check the location of Yorkshire Water Storm Overflows on the YW interactive map which includes information on when sewage is discharged into the river. Here is the link: https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/45b567b9b39d4ceea64c22c19366d118/page/Page/

The location of Yorkshire Water Treatment Works in our area can be found here: https://mapcarta.com/W143320443

Anglers should avoid fishing below the outfalls after periods of heavy rain which is when discharges usually take place. 

Plants 

Some plants can be a significant risk to health; most notably Giant Hogweed, whose sap can cause severe burning of the skin. 

Anglers should report anything they perceive to be a safety concern, whether it be a broken stile, a landslip, a tree showing signs of a likely fall, fly tipped hazardous waste material or other observations deemed to be a risk to fellow anglers. 

No-one should attempt to tackle a safety risk if they feel it may endanger their own safety or if they feel unqualified to tackle.