River
Users
What can we do now?
Many people who use the river are regularly placed at risk by the high levels of pathogens in the water.
Whether rowing, sailing, canoeing or using powered craft, everyone should take extra care to avoid ingestion of river water with some simple steps:
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water bottles are best with covered nozzles (www.rocktheboatclothing.co.uk)
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washing and showering, particularly hands and faces should be washed after every outing.
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open wounds and insect bites should be covered during outings, washed and disinfected after any chance of contact with river water.
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boats, equipment and clothing should be washed with detergent after use in the river – even items that are not immersed.
Boat clubs should maintain a good first aid kit with easy access to plenty of disinfection and eye washing equipment. Anti-bacterial/disinfecting hand washes should be in all washrooms.
Members should be encouraged to improve their levels of personal hygiene after contact with river water. If you get ill, possibly as a result of contact with river water, please fill out the self-reported illness questionnaire to help them with the survey (HPA river users study). If you have to visit your doctor, make sure they are aware that you have been exposed to river water.
Port of London Health Authority
Sewage is not the only danger to health in the river. There are all the physical hazards and vagueries of the wind, weather and tide plus the risk of hypothermia which presents the greatest risk to rowers lives - see Leo Blockley Memorial Campaign.