Canal and Exe Estuary codes of conduct and safety advice
Updated codes of conduct have been produced for the Exe Estuary. They help promote a safe and responsible approach to carrying out activities in the area.
A review of the old codes of conduct has been undertaken by he Exe Estuary Management Partnership (EEMP) in conjunction with the South East Devon Habitat Regulations Partnership.
Input was received from local clubs, user groups and national recreational bodies. This ensured that updated codes followed existing local and national guidance.
Download the codes of conduct
The updated codes includes advice on:
- Exe water users code
- Personal water craft (PWC) code
- Kayakers and paddlers
- Other Estuary activities
All Exe Estuary codes of conduct are available for download.
General safety advice
Stay afloat: Always wear a personal flotation device when on the water
Stay together: Go afloat with others, not alone, and stay together
Stay in touch: Make sure you’re able to call for help (999)
Know your limits: Check the weather and tide times before you go. Take extra care in quick flowing tide
Be seen: Carry a torch and consider high-vis clothing/reflective tape
Stay clear: Give vessels a wide berth and stay to the edges.
Be careful: Avoid high traffic areas such as landing points/pontoons
Swimming
Stay seen: Wear a bright swim hat and tow float when swimming, even when in the swimming areas.
Swim together: Always swim with a buddy.
Know the rules: Make sure you know where you can and cannot swim.
Swimming is prohibited in the navigation channel and on the Exeter Canal.
Check the weather: Check the weather forecast before setting out to make sure the conditions are suitable for your ability.
Yachts and Motor Boats
Check your boat before going out: Make sure your engine is serviced and your boat is in a serviceable condition with adequate fuel and reserves.
Communicate with someone ashore: Tell someone ashore where you are going and when you will be back. Remember to tell them when you are back safely.
Know the rules: Make sure you know the regulations for the waters you are using.
Please note on the Exe Estuary and approaches Byelaw 4: Do not exceed speed limit as defined by charts and buoyage: 10 Knots Max. Link to Byelaws.
Check the weather: Check the weather forecast before setting out to make sure the conditions are suitable for your ability and vessel.
Plan your passage: Plan your passage to make sure you aren’t caught out by tides, weather or navigation hazards.