Risks Assessment
Keswick Angling Association (KAA) is committed to maintaining the safety of those who fish and maintain our waters.
We want all involved to enjoy our waters without incident or harm and remind all involved that we all have a responsibility for our own and each others safety.
All activities carry risk which we are committed to managing as far as reasonably practicable. Officials, members and visiting anglers have a duty of care to themselves and others and must follow the KAA safety requirements at all times.
General risks associated with Angling:
| Power Lines |
Do not fish under or near power lines. Electricity can kill and can arc over considerable distances. You are ideally earthed in water to conduct electricity. Carbon fibre fishing rods are excellent conductors of electricity. |
| Access |
Only use obvious paths along the bank, Do not use paths which are closed off for any reason. Beware of slippery, uneven surfaces, tree roots etc. Particularly in bad weather. Use the gates and stiles available and do not climb fences. Be aware of overhanging branches particularly at eye level. Beware of unstable banks. No fishing on structures such as weirs, groynes etc. |
| Wading | Take particular care when wading. Be vigilant for in-water hazards such as storm debris, rocks and uneven river/lake floors. The use of a wading staff, a wading belt and buoyancy aid is recommended at all times. |
| Weather Conditions |
Lightning can kill. Leave the water if you become aware of lightning. Your rod may be the highest point around and a prime target for a strike. Be constantly aware of changing weather and it’s consequences. Stay hydrated and use sunscreen when necessary. Fishing under trees can be unsafe in windy conditions. Beware of falling branches. Be vigilant for storm damaged areas where trees and their surroundings may be unsafe. |
| Casting |
Be aware of your surroundings and any others nearby. You are responsible for ensuring your back cast does not make contact with anyone else. Wear eye protection. Use caution when handling and casting hooks, lures and flies. Particularly if weighted. |
| Animals, insects & disease |
Take extra care around livestock which can be very dangerous. Follow any signage posted. Ticks are found locally and can carry Lyme’s disease which can be serious. Long trousers and sleeves are recommended. Check yourself for insects, particularly ticks, after fishing. Weil’s disease may be present in rats urine and on banks. Sewage may present in the water and can carry disease. Do not put lines or lures (Flies) in your mouth. Sanitise hands before eating on or near the water. Wear waterproof plasters on any cuts or abrasions. |
| Platforms and Pontoons | Platforms and pontoons can be wet & slippery and be unstable. They are unsuitable for those with mobility issues. Apply maximum caution and wear a buoyancy aid. |
| Boats | By their nature boats can be unstable particularly when getting in or out of them. Apply caution at all times. Be constantly aware of changing weather conditions and make conservative decisions on whether to continue fishing. Do not stand to fish. Wear a buoyancy aid. |
| Lone Fishing | Carry a Mobile Phone. Let someone know where you plan to fish and an approximate time for your return. |
| Conflict | If for any reason conflict arises try to de-escalate the situation. Take photographs if appropriate and walk away. Report to Association Secretary |
| Injury |
In the event of an emergency dial 999. For minor injuries the nearest hospital is – Crosthwaite Rd, Keswick CA12 5PH. Phone – 01768 245678 |
| Additional information |
Lyme Disease is caused by bacteria transmitted to humans via the bite of an infected tick or other blood-feeding insect. The first stage of Lyme disease begins with flu-like symptoms but if untreated can lead to long term serious illness. Avoid getting bitten by ticks by using insect repellents or making sure your skin is covered by long trousers, socks and shirts with collars and long sleeves. Check yourself after fishing. Weil’s Disease (Leptospirosis) is carried in rats’ urine. Every year people die unnecessarily as it is easily treated if diagnosed in time. Cover any cuts, sores or scratches with waterproof plasters or gloves; disinfect any wounds that occur at the waterside; wash your hands or cover food with a wrapper before you eat; do not put your hand in your mouth after immersing in river water and never place bait or fishing line in your mouth |