As more and more people take to the lakes of Fermanagh to enjoy the good weather, Waterways Ireland, have issued some guidelines to encourage responsible use of the water for the enjoyment of all users.

WEARING LIFEJACKETS

To be effective, lifejackets must be the correct size for the user, properly fastened and serviced according to the manufacturer's recommendations. For some sports such as jet skiing, water skiing, dinghy sailing, windsurfing and canoeing, specialised personal floatation devices are available.

WASH AND SPEED LIMITS

Wash is the turbulent wave of water pushed outwards from every powered boat. This wash can hit other boats with surprising force causing them to roll violently and upset everything on board. Small boats, especially those under oars are particularly susceptible and may even be sunk by it. The effect of a large wash have a diminishing effect on the enjoyment of other users of the waterways.

On the Erne System, Waterways Ireland has installed speed limit signs in some areas to inform of the potential danger to other users from the wash produced by excessive speed. Whether an area is marked with a speed limit sign or not, users are asked to keep speed to a minimum in town centres, narrow channels, when passing other craft and when passing jetties where boats are moored.

Look behind you regularly and check to see if your wash is causing any discomfort for other users and if so, reduce the speed of your vessel until clear of the area.

SAILING DINGHIES, ROWING AND CANOEING

Motor boats should proceed with caution and slowly past fleets of sailing dinghies. During the summer months there are large numbers of dinghies on the water in Lower Lough Erne.

ALCOHOL AND BOATING

Waterways Ireland recommends that no one operates any machinery after drinking alcohol - this includes boats and equipment such as lock gates.

SUMMER WATER LEVELS

Waterways Ireland issues Marine Notices if water levels fall below normal summer level and accordingly, all boaters should exercise due care and prudence when cruising. The Marine Notices are posted on the Waterways Ireland website and at the relevant locks. In addition, boat owners are free to call the Office of the Inspector of Navigation for advice regarding their own particular craft and the suitability of undertaking a voyage in any stretch of the navigation.

The Waterways Ireland Inspectorate of Navigation is happy to advise boat users on navigational matters and provide information on boat registration and the bye-laws. The Inspectorate of Navigation can be contacted at 028 66322836.