Insurers asked to adopt approved repairer scheme for claims

River Canal Rescue Managing Director, Stephanie Horton, is asking insurers to review their clams handling processes in order to get boaters back on the water within days of an incident.  During a presentation at the recent Crick Boat Show, Stephanie emphasised the speed at which claims can be resolved if the insurer runs an approved repairer scheme. 

When an incident occurs, insurers typically require claimants to register the claim and complete and return a notification form with a minimum of two repair/replacement quotes.  Upon approval, the claimant is left to progress and pay for the work, submit an invoice and wait for reimbursement.

River Canal Rescue estimates this process, on average, takes between two weeks and three months.

Insurers running an approved repairer scheme, however, have authorised River Canal Rescue’s subsidiary firm, Canal Contracting, to make repairs up to an agreed limit, so there’s no need to source and pay contractors up front.   The breakdown specialist says this process; from notification to repair, can take one or two days as often only a single call is needed to the insurer for the claim to be registered, authorised and progressed. 

Stephanie went on to outline common causes of claims, such as navigational errors, grounding, accidental damage and vandalism and explained how to reduce further losses.   She also put insurance jargon into plain English and advised on claimants’ responsibilities.

Stephanie comments: “Boaters, particularly recreational ones, who insure with firms without this scheme, tend to resent the amount of time it takes to get their craft repaired and one of their biggest frustrations is having to return home to complete a claim form and source quotes/failure reports in order to obtain repair authorisation.  This takes up time and can involve a fair amount of travel to locate suitable contractors – all before anything is agreed. 

“Insurers must adapt their processes and take into account the stress and trauma often faced by boaters when they make a claim and equally, claimants need to understand the requirements and limitations of their policy.”

Collidge & Partners join forces with RCR.

One of the UK’s best known Insurance underwriting agents, who’ve specialised in the marine sector for over 25 years, Collidge & Partners, have teamed up with River Canal Rescue to offer a unique breakdown service which is now on offer to their clients. The new membership is now available to both new and existing clients and means that their customers now have access to competitively priced breakdown cover for their boat.

The service, full details of which are available on Collidge and Partners website, was first discussed just under a year ago when Chris Collidge asked RCR’s MD Stephanie Horton to come up with a package to replace Collidge &; Partners existing breakdown recovery product. The brief was simple, Chris wanted something akin to the RAC’s coverage for the motorist. He also stipulated the service was to be 24/7 and it had to be competitively priced. The result is C&P’s new Inland Waterways Breakdown Cover. 

With cover now being offered and it’s popularity evident Chris Collidge commented that he “welcomes the arrangement with RCR and is more than happy to be associated with the company [RCR]” which he describes as “complimenting his own insurance business.”

As for RCR, Stephanie states “ It’s great to finally get Collidge & Partners on board, as one of the most successful inland waterways brokers we worked with them to put together a very unique membership package. This package includes the elements that C&P championed as being a top priority to their customers, and also provided them with the benefit of knowing that they have RCR cover and access to a dependable service 24/7” She added that RCR are also “the approved repairers for Navigators and General policies and as such also handle claims for Collidge and Partners; so their customers will now experience a seamless and first class service no matter what happens...we are here to help”.

For full details of the breakdown cover on offer from C&P visit www.collidgeandpartners.co.uk and click on the link to the ‘Inland Waterways Breakdown Cover’ where you will find full details and the opportunity to download the application form. Prices start from £65 which provides cover for a maximum of 3 callouts per year.

For full details of River Canal Rescue’s range of breakdown services, and their unique Canal Contracting company, visit www.rivercanalrescue.co.uk

RCR Engine Maintenance & Boat Electrical Courses (RYA accredited)

Changes have been made to two of RCR’s well-known and ever popular maintenance courses for the 2013 season. This year the electrical courses will be run by Howard Williams, and the Maintenance course by Keith Duffy. These courses were previously presented by Tony Brookes who is now retired.

Keith Duffy has also joined as a course tutor specialising in mechanical engineering. Keith maybe a familiar face to those who’ve used River Canal Rescue’s services in the past as he used to work for RCR and was one of their first employees. A former RAF trained aircraft engineer with 43 years engineering experience and blue water sailor, Keith has now retired but enjoys teaching other people how to maintain and problem solve their own mechanical problems.  He can still be found on the waterways helping boaters and also supports RCR junior engineers in their roles.

 Howard Williams was apprenticed as an electrical technician and is now an Approved Electrician and British Marine Electrical Association Marine Electrical Technician. He has a personal interest in boats and hired on many occasions before buying his first boat in 2000. Howard carries out electrical work on and around boats on a day to day basis. This includes all types of work from emergency call out to rectify faults to full wiring of new boats from scratch. Howard like to keep up to date on new developments and as a result he’s confident that he will be able to offer those attending the course an informative, educational; but most importantly an enjoyable: time, and looks forward to meeting new learners." 

 Stephanie Horton, RCR’s MD said, “The new format of the courses has taken the excellent content of our previous courses, and the RYA requirements but added in more practical and hands on activities, we have looked at the key elements that boaters want to achieve from the course and condensed it to ensure that everyone comes away with real skills that they can put in to action on their own boat”.

Details of the courses can be foudn on the RCR webpages www.rivercanalrescue.co.uk

RCR Sponser the IWA Festival Awards

Waterways Festival Awards

River Canal Rescue is urging people to enter this year’s Waterways Festival Awards which are presented during the 19-21 July get-together at Cassiobury Park, near Watford.

Described as the biggest waterway event alongside Crick – the annual Festival attracts thousands of visitors and hundreds of canal boat owners with their craft. 

The waterways breakdown and rescue firm sponsors three Awards; the AP Herbert, Robert Aikman and newly re-named River Canal Rescue trophies, recognising the longest journey in a qualifying period, most enterprising continuous journey and most enterprising non-continuous journey. 

As well as the trophies, award-winners receive free RCR membership, and a Free Service for the longest Journey.  Deadline for entries by post or email is 8 July or for those handing in their forms at the Grand Union canal Festival site, 18 July.  

To find out more visit www.waterways.org.uk or email enquiries@rivercanalrescue.co.uk

RCR’s Engineer of the Year Awards.

During River Canal Rescue’s recent AGM, held at their offices in Stafford during January, two awards were made. The awards for Engineer of the Year and Most call outs were made to J William Forman and Dean Burroughs, both of whom work in the midlands region with Dean being a junior engineer and J being a senior engineer.

J William Forman won the Engineer of the Year award, this award is very difficult to win in that it is not simply a case of getting the most jobs done, but is measured on a range of skills which take in to account the number of call-outs, number of inspections and services completed, the quality and accuracy of his documentation, management of stock and professional appearance and attitude, most importantly, the number of compliments received for his work. His award was made by last years winner Steve Hill who presented not only the trophy but also the RCR 1P number plate for his van and a gift voucher for Halfords.

The award for most breakdowns was made to Dean Burroughs and was presented by last years winner Aaron Forman. Dean attended some 269 call-outs over the last year. He won both a trophy and a Halfords voucher but only just! He was closely followed by three other engineers but managed to win by just six call-outs.

Stephanie Horton, RCR’s MD said that, “this award is a true reflection of the dedication of our engineers and the company to providing an excellent service for all our customers and the emphasis we place on the full package not just simply engineering skills.” She added, “There is quite a lot of friendly competition between the engineers to win these titles, Dean has had a difficult year in 2011, and has really pulled though to show that he can perform and deserved the recognition that the award brings. Jay has worked his way though as an apprentice to Senior engineer and the Engineer of the Year is a true representation of the emphasis that we place on our engineers developing and maintaining their skills, in both customer service and engineering knowledge as is a testament to his work in the field.”

Steve Hill presenting (L) to J Forman (R) 

Aaron Forman (R) to Dean Burroughs (L)

10 mins and then she was on the bottom.

From the rooftops of the buildings opposite the river, builders spotted a narrow boat whose stern appeared to be sinking, but by the time they got down and raised the alarm the vessel had already sunk to the gunnels. L R Harris at Syston quickly notified the owner and obtained a pump, in order to try and rescue the boat. 

When the owner returned unfortunately it was already too late to rescue his beloved parrots, and although he waded waist deep in freezing water it was obvious that the cages were well below the water. As a live abound the owner had taken great care of the boat and only recently had a hull survey completed. Everyone was at a loss to explain the cause of the sinking, other than the heavy and persistent rain fall over the past few days.  

LR Harris battled all day to try to raise the boat but to no avail and as light faded they called RCR to see if their rescue team were available.  With the light gone the team were prepped to attend the following day and armed with 4 pumps hoped to get her refloated.

RCR’s team immediately set to with the pumps, but after several hours were still not making the headway they had expected. More water was appearing than disappearing! Searching the vessel they found a number of vents, and the owner notified them of a couple more on the outside of his boat. By blocking these they started to gain momentum but still water was pouring and the source could not be located.

Working in freezing temperatures and waist deep in water for hours, and with work not progressing as it should the team called a halt. When they did it took only 28secs for her to sink back to her previous position. The following day, having discussed possibilities and options, they returned to site to try again. This time they removed sodden items from the boat to reduce weight, blocked holes and vents, and used a winch to assist in lifting the stern. With the help of local boaters and all pumps working at full capacity within a few hours the boat finally came up.

Unfortunately she was still taking on a large amount of water and at risk of sinking again, so the team took the option of grounding her in LR Harris pound. This where the rest of the heavy items could be removed so that she can be hoisted out of the water and a full investigation as to the cause undertaken.

LR Harris staff and the local boaters supplied ample warm drinks and helped keep everyone’s spirits high despite the circumstances, and with a strong community spirit are committed to helping the owner get back on his feet.

Stranded Dutch Barge

River Canals Rescue’s specialist rescue team were called out to see if they could help the owner of a Dutch Barge which, due to severe flooding, had become stranded on land as the flood waters receded.

Mrs Brooksmith, the owner of the barge, was informed by EA that, due to flood waters raising the river levels by over 4ft, her boat had floated free of its moorings and come to rest across the back gardens of two waterside properties in Wansford, Cambridgeshire.

The intense rainfall had caused an unexpected and unusual rise in river levels and as a result many vessels were stranded. However the 70ft wide beam Dutch barge looked to present the biggest challenge. As waters receded and the river began to return to normal specialists were brought in and the cost of the rescue started to escalate quickly.

EA suggested the Mrs Brooksmith called Canal Contracting and RCR to see if their specialist team could come up with any alternative ideas. Having carried out an initial investigation it was clear that due to the boats location, and the access to the front of the house, there was impossible for a crane to gain access to the vessel on the village side. The pasture land opposite was saturated and would not hold a crane even with track laid across the two fields unless they waited until the land had drained and dried out considerably.

With the water receding  the possibility of getting the vessel refloated were not improving, the best option was to attempt to pull the boat back in to the river. However, with no water under her and a sodden field opposite it was going to take a miracle. Trevor the CEO was in attendance at the rescue and his experience and expertise quickly thought of a possible solution, and with the help of local contractor Jim Boulton they set to work. 

First they removed the scaffolding and old mooring material out of the way to stop any damage to the vessel when it re-entered the water, and then located and organised for a Unimog plant vehicle to attend site. As one of the only vehicles that could deal with the saturated terrain, and one which also had the pulling power needed, the Unimog made quick work of hauling the bow in to the water, it was then simply a case of repositioning to allow the boat to enter the water safely.

Once reafloated the boat was checked over for damage and moved to a temporary mooring for safety until the river was once more navigable. The kind assistance of local residences and the caretaker of the land was instrumental in the successful rescue.

Dramatic rescue on the River Soar

RCR have been involved in the dramatic rescue of a narrowboat on the River Soar at Ratclife in Nottinghamshire which saw their boat got caught by the current in the swollen river. The stretch on which the boat became stuck was a backwater taking excess water from the canal and, due to the recent heavy rain, was expected to rise even further during the hours shortly after the incident.

Thankfully the boat came to rest on the edge of the wear but this was directly under a concrete bridge. The result was just a few inches of clearance between the boat roof and the bridge. With levels continuing to rise the situation was likely to only get worse.

The fire brigade attended to rescue the crew on board, and RCR received a call from Nottingham fire brigade Chief, Mr Brambley, to ask if RCR could assist? RCR arranged for a tug and local contractors Redhill to attend whilst a rescue team were scrambled. When the team arrived Redhill had already got ropes on to the boat and brought in a JCB to help pull the boat. Due to the heavy rain and resulting high water levels the current was so strong the tug had little chance of pulling the boat on its own. The RCR team coordinated the rescue and manoeuvred the vessel whilst the tug and JCB took the strain.

As can be seen in the photos the weir is on a sharp bend off the main river, and with poor access the job was split in to two halves. Firstly, the aim was to get the boat off the weir, which was accomplished in stages. Weeds hampered the rescue and grounded the vessel on a number of occasions. but finally the boat was free of the weir and the bridge and was moored up for the night. Unfortunately the tug too had a few issues and with a fouled prop and had to be moored up as well.

The following day the rescue team and Redhill marine retuned to site and, after negotiation with local farmers, were able to get access (via the field) to the tow path on the main river. As there were approx’ 100mtrs between the boat and the towpath, the team used some novel techniques to string a rope between the two. By employing a tractor they then pulled, first the tug and then the vessel backwards against the current on to the main waterways. - a 5 hr exercise! The whole rescue involved a lot of planning and H&S assessments before the maneuver could take place.

Finally the boat was cruised back to Redhill’s moorings, but just in the nick of time as within an hour the river levels had risen by over a foot. It was then clear that if the boat had not been rescued it would have ended up either in the garden of the house adjacent, wedged under the bridge or down the weir.

The St John’s ambulance were on site taking care of the boat owners, and BW personnel assisted by closing the waterways and towpath to ensure that the rescue could be completed.  The whole event caught the attention of the BBC’s local news team who filmed a report that was published on the BBC’s news website at http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-nottinghamshire-18736335

New Apps for Waterways Users.

Eureauweb, producers of Water-way - the only integrated cruising guide, route planner and sat nav for the inland waterways - have worked with RCR to produce a series of regional navigational apps for both the Android and iPhone platforms. The results are applications that provide mapping and local information directly related to the inland waterways user for just £5.99 per region.

Getting reliable and useful information relating to your location on the waterways has, in the past, meant looking at a map or guidebook or having a GPS-enabled laptop/PC on-board.  But with fast growing number of people having Smartphones, it was obvious that before long someone would come up with an app to use the functionality of new technology to provide all the information needed by boaters.

The ‘e-canalmapp’ apps have been specifically designed for boaters and provide instant information about location, places of interest and waterway information (locks, bridges, moorings, etc.).  In the future, the apps will include additional features that will help simplify claims and accident assessment, and may even be developed to have an 'panic' button in case of emergency. Features like this are currently provided by some automotive rescue services on their apps but this is a first for the waterways.

RCR will be providing one region of your choice to our members as a free membership benefit, with additional regions being available at a discount to members.  We will be launching this at Crick this year on stand KF46 in the Kingfisher Marquee, Crick Marina 1st - 4th June 2012 and anticipate a good take up.

Stephanie Horton, MD added, "RCR is very excited about this new development, part of our service to members is to deliver innovative solutions and services and this useful application is just one more example of this,...we know how valuable this will be which is why we have decided to offer this as a FREE download for all of our members....All RCR members will receive notification on how and where to download their regional map as soon as it is available, alternatively if members pop to the stand at crick we will help with installation and give them a demo of the software. These are exciting times for all boaters as we are starting to see technology being used to enhance the enjoyment of the waterways"

For more information on all River Canal Rescues services visit www.rivercanalrescue.co.uk

So... just what is in our Tanks?

In 2011 River Canal Rescue the nationwide breakdown company for boats attended over 600 instances of fuel related breakdowns, with over 50% of these problems being related specifically to fuel contamination. In previous years contamination could be broken down to two main categories 1)water contamination and 2) diesel bug. However over the last 12 months the cases of unidentified fuel contamination issues has risen dramatically, and the knock on effect has resulted in fundamental components failing in the fuel system.


There is a clear correlation between the increase in diesel issues and the introduction of low sulphur diesel. The biggest down side of this diesel begin its absorption and attraction of water, which is resulting in higher cases of diesel bug and fuel emulsification. However Low sulphur diesel can also cause issues with rubber and components in the fuel system because is contains less lubricants, and eventually this lack of lubrication can result in faster degradation of these components, resulting in seizures, breakages and seal failures. Due to this range of problems most Insurance companies and parts suppliers will no longer cover claims or warrantees where fuel issues are suspected as the cause of the failure, and with an increase in these types of issues it is more important than ever to know... What is in your Tank?


River Canal Rescue has always advocate the use of treatments to combat water in the fuel and diesel bug, and for these problems these offer the best quick fix solutions, even though good maintenance and regular removal of water form you tank will give you the same protection.


However over the last 15 months RCR have seen a rise in contamination issues that are far from the norm, with visible issues causing the diesel to look anything from ‘hot chocolate’ to ‘orange’ to being completely clear, and creating a number of issues throughout the fuel system. 

Typical symptoms are non starting, erratic running, cutting out, but in addition RCR have found fuel pumps experiencing major failures. Injection pumps failures have increase dramatically as the new mixes and bio fuels result in failures of seals, pumps running ‘dry’ and internal rusting which have resulted in an increase of over 34% in these type of failures.


Working with a number of external independent testers and laboratory’s has highlighted the fact that this problem is not unique to the inland waterways. Every industry from ships, to aircraft, tractors to back up generators are experiencing similar issues.

Ian Roos of Fuel QC recently stated that ..... for some time now we have been working on a number of cases where fuel samples are taken from systems where there is frequent filter blocking issues but the samples present clear and bright with no visible contaminants. However on investigation the fuel is found to be filled with crystal.

Ian Roos of Fuel QC recently stated that .....

here is some debate as to the origin because we do not have a definitive test for it.

Companies are all capitalising on the key mistake a lot of people make in assuming the sludge they see, and the problems they have with fuel contamination is microbial. Statistically 95% of the cases we have been getting in the last two months is due to paraffin crystallisation in the fuel. 



Paraffin crystals form inside water droplets; growing bigger and thicker over time, it can appear as a white layer on the tank bottom or the crystals can remains in suspension in the mid-level of the tank, these crystals can be invisible but when they hit a filter they will compact and block up the system. 

There are a lot of explanations as to why new contaminates are being found suspended in fuel and the most likely explanation is that it is a side effect of other elements/contaminants being present, of which water is the most important. Given time to settle water does not normally remain suspended in fuel and therefore this behaviour is most likely caused by additives such as water emulsifiers, which lock the water in to the fuel. And it is these molecules that are the basis for the crystallisation to form.


RCR’s experiences are consistent with these findings, and they now suspect that more and more Paraffin or kerosene is appearing in ordinarily diesel. Additionally the use of different treatments and chemicals being added to fuel are creating a chemical concoction inside fuel tanks.


Over all although diesel bug is still affecting boaters regularly and water contamination is still a big problem, this new issue is as yet undefined and in addition there appears to be so many variations and strains that any coverall ‘treatment’ is unrealistic, no matter what any manufacturer tells you.

However there are things that boaters can do to limit there susceptibility to the current minefield of problems and solutions.

• Use reputable supplier
  
• Use same supplier if possible
  
• Remove water from tank on regular basis
  
• Choose a treatment that works for you and stick to it
  
• Take samples of fuel delivered. Check them before you accept the delivery.
  
• if buying cheap fuel – mix a sample with your current fuel to see if there is a reaction 
  

RCR’s Engineer of the Year.

Steve Hill and Aaron Forman have been awarded Engineer of the Year and Breakdown awards at River Canal Rescue’s recent AGM.  Aaron, who attended over 350 breakdowns in 2011 throughout his area which covers from Birmingham to London and includes Bristol, also broke the record for most breakdowns attended.

Steve was presented the Award for Engineer of the year which is based on a points system and assesses on a number of qualities including the number of any complaints made, stock control, temperament and attitude amongst a number of criteria.  Each award is held for the next year until they present it to the new winner. Pete Baker presented the engineer of the year award to the winner who wins use of the RCR  1P (RCR 1st place) number plate for the year as well as a cash prize, something which the two runners up also receive.

Stephanie Horton, RCR’s MD said that, “this award is a true reflection of the dedication of our engineers and the company to providing an excellent service for all our customers and the emphasis we place on the full package not just simply engineering skills.”

Pete Baker (r) presents Engineer of the Year award to Steve Hill

Aaron Forman with his award

Narrowboat Breakdown Guide

Towergate Insurance, has, with the help of River Canal Rescue, listed the five most common narrowboat breakdowns and how to avoid them on their website. It's worth having a look as they could save you time and money.

RCR lends a hand with the Stafford Riverway Link.

For 10 years River Canal Rescue have been based in Stafford, a short distance from the Staffs and Worcester canal so it’s not surprising that the company have got involved in the project to restore The Stafford Riverway Link. The SRL is the new name for the former Stafford Branch Canal or River Sow Navigation which formerly linked the Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal at Baswich with the town centre of Stafford.  The restoration project aims to rebuild this link for community benefit.

This link consisted of a short section of canal branching off the Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal near St Thomas Bridge 101 leading via a basin and an aqueduct over a drainage channel into a lock down into the River Sow.  From here the river course was straightened and made navigable for 1½ miles to its terminus at a basin near Green Bridge in Stafford.

The Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal opened in 1772 passing within I½ miles of Stafford but on the other side of the river. Despite this the first fixed link with the town was not made until 1805 when a horse tramroad was opened running from a basin and warehouses at Radford Bank. Coal was carried from the canal together with other goods but its limited capacity meant it was not a great success and it closed in about 1814.  This was replaced in 1816 by the River Sow Navigation which was constructed privately.

To this day the route can still be walked on riverside footpaths and doing so you can see the potential value of its restoration to boaters and for trade and tourism in Stafford is. This was part of the reason why RCR decided to help to promote the project by supporting the project though the production of posters to promote the charities aims, and also the construction of a post at the proposed junction to highlight to boaters and walkers where the new canals route. This, it is hoped, will improve visibility of the charity and its aims.

For more information see the Stafford Riverway Link website: www.stafford-riverway-link.co.uk and for more information on River Canal Rescue visit www.rivercanalrescue.co.uk

Two new engineers join the RCR team.

Two new engineers have been recruited to the RCR field engineers team help meet the increasing demands for canal side assistance.

Steve Hill, has been a mechanical fitter and brings over 20yrs of experience to his role with RCR. His knowledge on petrol and diesel engines and his ability to use true engineering skills to deal with problems, rather than just 'fit new parts', makes him ideal for the job. His happy and cheerful outgoing personality has already made him one of the new favourites for members in Fens and Midlands which are his main areas.

 

Tom Walker has already completed a college course in mechanicals and has been using his skills in a number of related environments. He's shown an aptitude for the marine environment and has the right attitude when dealing with people. Tom was selected form a number of candidates as our new apprentice and although he will be going thought the same training and college courses during his apprenticeship, there will be an opportunity for him to complete early because of his past experience. To date he is already showing that he has the skills and attitude to make a first class RCR engineer.

ABC and RCR team up for training.

Two market leaders have teamed up to provide staff with 12v electrical systems training. ABC Leisure Group, the UK market leader in narrowboat hire and inland marina and waterways services, along with River Canal Rescue (RCR) who provide marine breakdown cover, trained over 30 of their engineers during March.

The training took place at Alvechurch Marina’s new dedicated training facility using 3 engine test rigs provided by RCR and their trainer, Tony Brookes. Tony is a well known technical advisor for the waterways press.

“On this occasion the training was for our staff and feedback has been extremely positive”, commented ABC’s Managing Director, Edward Helps.

“It’s our intention to open the courses up to private boaters shortly. So that they can also benefit from this training.”

ABC's staff undergoing training from RCR's Tony Brookes.

More dramatic rescues for RCR.

River Canal Rescue have been involved in yet more dramatic rescues recently. To start with the owner of a 43ft boat called for help after getting caught by the current whilst turning. As a result he ended up wedged sideways on to a bridge on the Avon at Eckington Br. West Midlands Fire and Rescue rescued the crew but by the time they got the crew off the boat the water was lapping at the gunwale.

RCR scrambled the rescue team who arrived on site approx 3.30 together with a contractor who had a Land Rover which was attached to the boat. However, unfortunately every time they tried to pull the boat against the current it started to drag the Land Rover back. So back up was called in from York which arrived at 6pm together with other team members.

The boat stern was grounded on the far bank, with it’s bow wedged against the bridge by the force of the river water (which was in flood) resulting in the boat being at a 30 degree angle. The decision was taken to attempt the rescue in two stages so, with a safely line to the bridge and two engineers on-board, the first stage began. This was to pull the boat by the stern towards the opposite bank using a line which was rigged to the Land Rover. After a number of attempts the boat was beached bow first on to the opposite shore with it’s stern wedged against the bridge.

The second stage was to reposition the Land Rover and with a shorter rope swing the stern away for the centre of the river towards the shore and use the engine power to reverse the boat to the small jetty. During a number of attempts the rope snapped, not helped by operating in the dark, the engineers knew that time was now of the essence as the boat was in serious danger of capsizing. Due to the angle it had been sitting at for several hours the outlets had been under water and as a result water had been pouring in and filing up the boat. Finally using the engine power and the Land Rover the boat was finally dragged around and secured to the jetty.

Onboard the bilges were working overtime and loosing the battle to keep the boat afloat, more bridge pumps were installed but the water was still rising. A quick decision was taken and in order to right the listing boat all personnel had to get onboard on the opposite side and use there combined weight to even the boat and lift the submerged outlets clear of the river. A small winch was rigged up to the shore to try and keep the boat level, and after two hours of pumping the boat was finally level, free of water and safe.

At 4.30 the following day RCR received another call from a 57ft boat unbelievably in the exact same location but wedged horizontally against the bridge. The only access via boat or a ladder from the bridge. RCR alerted the rescue services to remove the boaters from the vessel for their own safety. When the engineers arrived on site at approximately 6pm they set to work assessing the situation and preparing for the rescue. The boaters were looked after by the St Johns ambulance team who had been contacted by the fire brigade after RCR explined that the rescue could take several hours. The rescue team having undertaken a rescue the previous day were quickly at work and by following the same procedure - pulling the boat backwards and using the engine power to reverse the boat they got it onto the jetty. The boaters from the previous rescue were still moored up on the jetty waiting for the river waters to recede, and this has to be moved up to make space for the second boat!

It’s worth noting that RCR charges for rescues but over the last year they have rescued 12 boats from critical situations which would have resulted in capsizing or loss of the whole boat. Stephanie Horton MD said “It’s also worth noting that from an insurance point of view a boater must undertake as many measures as possible to mitigate loss or potential loss, and that generally charges for recovery, lifting and rescue of a boat from these dangerous situations are covered by your insurance policies, however taking unnecessary risks can invalidate your insurance claim, so always assess if venturing out on to a river in flood is a sensible action; if your jorney can be avoided then don’t risk it”.

A minimum of three engineers would be dispatched for all rescue activities and RCR’s thanks go to engineers, Trevor Forman for both, Kerry Horton for both, Pete Baker for both, Pete Barnett for 1st, Aaron Forman for both, Mike Adams (contractor) for 1st.

Insurer offers advice for re launching boats

Navigators & General (N&G) together with River Canal Rescue (RCR) is reminding boat owners to carry out a number of simple and straightforward checks before they get back on the water to avoid common claims.

“RCR have found over many years of attending breakdown and emergencies that conducting maintenance checks before starting off on a cruise will reduce the risk of damage to the boat and possible injuries. There is a substantial risk that you will breakdown on your first run out, and therefore it is essential that you do your best to prevent this occurring as if something major occurs remember that insurance cannot compensate for lack of maintenance and will not cover damage caused as a result of wear and tear.” Stephanie Horton MD RCR

N&G generally sees an increase in claims notifications over March and April as boats are launched, or when owners return to find their boats have suffered damage or theft during the winter. The increased risk frost damage to pipes, water systems and engines this year are likely to have caused more undetected damage that may go un detected until too late.

Carrying out a number of simple pre-launch checks, and ensuring there is good communication with the yard or launching company can significantly help reduce the risk of potential accidents, breakdowns or worse still, sinking. Wherever possible, it is advisable for the owner to be present when the boat is launched to monitor the vessel for any unusual water ingress for at least a couple of hours after settling

These types of checks are particularly important after a harsh winter where skin fittings, pipes, engines and water/cooling systems may have been damaged or dislodged by ice. Pipes split by ice can slowly leak once submersed below the waterline often leading to sinking if not spotted. N&G have seen a number of sinking claims caused by something as simple as failing to replace a through hull fitting or re-attach an internal hose. 

Even the experienced boat owner is still at risk from complacency. Taking a small amount of time to routinely go through a number of pre season checks can prove very worthwhile.

To avoid problems, Navigators & General and RCR recommend the following:

• check all water carrying pipes for splits or leaks 
• have a yearly pre-season machinery maintenance check, by a boat engineer (RCR Engine inspection) 
• do not start engines until all basic checks have been completed, including opening raw water sea cocks 
• check fuel or gas lines and cables for wear & tear and deterioration 
• check bilges and ensure bilge pumps are working – if water found check gearbox for contamination and locate leak. 
• check all hoses, skin fittings, through hull fittings & hose clips 
• have your engine serviced prior to use, and treat fuel with a treatment for water contamination and diesel bug with products similar to Marine 16. 
• check Morse controller and steering controls to ensure free movement 

Common problems include:

• flooring, steps and handles not being properly re-attached after servicing, which can lead to injury 
• split pipes that only show themselves hours after a boat is underway 
• through hull fittings not being replaced or hoses not properly re-connected, 
• which can lead to sinking 
• not checking engines are fully re-commissioned, which can let you down at a crucial moment or be damaged when started 
• blocked filters and contaminated fuel due to lack of servicing and standing for long periods resulting in engine failure at crucial moments. 
• water in gearboxes, due to being semi submerged or oil cooler leaking, causing potential failure and damage. 

“Whilst it is tempting to get out on the water at the first sign of a good spring day, spending time on these simple pre-season checks will be time well-spent as the rain, damp and storms over the winter can cause wear and tear to a boat and equipment. It’s also key to ensure there is no misunderstanding about who is to complete the maintenance and prepare the boat for launch – be it the boat owner or the boat yard or a third party. ” said James Roberts Head of Navigators & General

Newsletter.

Our new newsletter is out now so if you'd like to take a look click on the following link and download the latest news from RCR.
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Innovation and Customer Service at the heart of RCR’s New Membership Cover.

Innovation and Customer Service at the heart of RCR’s New Membership Cover.

River Canal Rescue are proud to announce an innovative and new service as part of RCR membership. This new cover offers our members an amazing service, taking ‘peace of mind’ a step further and ensuring that no matter what happens we can assist you. Not only that but we can also remove the burden of unplanned costs.

The new, RCR Replacement Parts Cover is designed to complement the benefits members already receive under the RCR Breakdown membership. This is not, however, available as a standalone product. The new service will be included in all membership levels other than the retainer level.

Parts Replacement Cover – 

Now after you’ve broken down we can pick up the repair bill.

RCR Replacements Parts cover gives you additional peace of mind, knowing we could help protect you from surprise repair bills should your vessel breakdown. (Full details will be available in the T&C’s membership booklet.)

What the new RCR membership will cover: 

• Following a breakdown, attended under your RCR Membership, the cost of parts, labour and VAT are covered if your vessel needs repairs due to mechanical or electrical breakdown. Cover limits and exclusions apply.*
• Cover includes a huge range of parts, for example :-

1. Starter Motor
2. Alternator replacements
3. Water Pump
4. Fuel Pump, Fuel Pipes & Fuel Hoses
5. Gearbox & Drive Plate
6. Propeller Shaft & Couplings
7. Hydraulic Pipes
8. Engine Mounts
9. Mechanical Steering and Hydraulic Controls
10. Injection Pump

Specifically EXCLUDED Parts

• Oil Cooler
• Propeller(s)
• Stern Gland/Tube
• Engine
• Consumables such as cables, filters, rubber components and the like that require routine wear and tear replacement

• Pays up to a maximum of £1,000 per repair^**
• You can make up to 4 claims per year 
• no restrictions on age of the engine

*Excludes normal wear and tear. 

**£50 excess per claim.

Festival Times - February 2010

The following was published in the IWA's Festival Times newsletter and highlights our two months free membership on offer to all boats visiting this years IWA Festival at Beale Park.

River Canal Rescue (RCR) has long been a great supporter of IWA’s National Festival & Boat Show.  However, 2010 will see them taking that support to a new level.  

All boaters booking in for the 2010 show at Beale Park will – for the first time – be offered two months free breakdown cover from mid-July to mid-September.  During this period, RCR’s engineers can be called out as often as required and will provide engineering expertise to diagnose and repair any engine related mechanical problems.  The only costs will be a simple £35 call-out fee and the price of any spare parts that may be required.

David Pullen, IWA Festival’s Waterspace Director, said:

“This is an extremely generous offer and should be a significant incentive, particularly to any longer distance boaters who may be thinking of a Thames/London ring/K&A trip en route to the Festival at Beale Park. “

RCR is the UK’s leading waterways breakdown and rescue service and the National Festival organisers are sure that this generous offer will be very popular with visiting boaters, especially those who do not normally cruise on rivers.  Full information about the RCR offer will be sent out to boaters with their Festival packs in early June.

Stephanie Horton, RCR's MD, said that "as a company we've supported and worked with the IWA for many years, supporting the IWA awards for 'most enterprising journey', 'longest journey' and 'most enterprising non continuous journey' and we are keen to build on this, especially during the 2010 festival to celebrate the centenary of the birth of Tom Rolt."

The Beale Park Festival will take place alongside the Beale Park estate, Lower Basildon, Berkshire on the River Thames over the August Bank Holiday weekend, 28 – 30 August 2010 and is a great three day celebration of the inland waterways.

Attracting up to 600 visiting craft, including many historic vessels, with hundreds of trade exhibitors and live entertainment, the National Festival is a great day out for everyone.  The 2010 National will also celebrate the Centenary of the birth of Tom Rolt, one of IWA’s founding fathers who was passionate about waterways, steam railways and vintage cars and the organisers hope to reflect this during the Festival.

For further information please visit our website  www.waterways.org.uk and click on Events.

For further information about RCR please see their website www.rivercanalrescue.co.uk