Low water levels

With warnings of reducing water levels on canals and rivers, debris and rubbish which would otherwise sit in the bottom silt will be far more likely to come into contact with the hull, propeller and rudder. The consequences can range from a much slower journey, serious damage to underwater gear or a fouled propeller.

Read our top tips on what to do if you hit a problem.

Over-heated engine For boats with water-cooled engines, there is the risk of ingesting fouled water which can lead to overheating, a broken impellor or block in the engine itself. The reduction in water flow caused by even a partially clogged filter can soon send the temperature soaring.

1) Check and clean out your engine raw-water strainers before each trip.

2) Most engines like to operate between 85-90°C so stick a note with on the temperature gauge to spot any problems quickly.

3) If you see the temperature start to get abnormally high when you are underway you need to throttle back immediately and it may be best to shut the engine down.

4) Check the cooling water discharge and if there is no sign of cooling water shut the engine down immediately.

5) Feeling the face plate on the raw-water pump can also tell you a lot. If it's hot no water has passed through it, indicating a raw water problem. If it's cold, the raw water is probably fine, which steers you towards a fresh water problem.

6) Take stock of the situation - If you feel you need help call the local waterways authority who may be able to assist you with a workboat.

For step-by-step instructions on how to deal with engine failure, fouled propellers and overheated engines order the Essential Skipper guide for just £6.95.

Clear a fouled propeller One common problem is that of the sterngear becoming fouled on weeds, tree debris and rubbish. This can have severe consequences if you are travelling at speed but, in any case, you'll need to pull the throttles back into neutral as soon as something goes amiss.

The following checklist should help you deal with such a situation.

1) Check the bilges or any compartments where there are prop shafts and sterngear.

2) If it looks like you are no longer entangled or the offending article might shake free, give the engine(s) a quick nudge astern as this can help unwind what's there. Wait several seconds, checking over the stern to see if anything materialises and then try a nudge ahead and assess whether you're free to move.

3) Once the sterngear is disentangled use only a judicious amount of throttle to proceed and if there is any sign of vibration then you'll need to get the boat lifted for a detailed inspection of the sterngear, along with the sterntube and engine mountings.

For step-by-step instructions on how to deal with engine failure, fouled propellers and overheated engines order the Essential Skipper guide for just £6.95.

Grounding According to a report by marine insurers Navigators & General and River Canal Rescue , low water level groundings are one of the most common causes of insurance claims.

If you do become grounded:

1) If the bow is aground put engine into reverse and move all crew to the stern. If still stuck fast and water tanks are at the front of the boat - turn taps on and release water. I

2) If the stern is grounded whilst in astern, put the engine in forward and transfer crew to the bow. If the stern is grounded whilst moving forward put the engine in reverse and move all crew to the bow of the boat and move astern carefully.

3) For both situations, if the boat cannot be released: turn off the engine, contact the local waterways authority and find out when the water levels will change or if there is the possibility of releasing more water. Occasionally they may have a workboat that can attend. If a passing boater offers to assist, follow the general rule and ‘pull the boat back in the direction it entered'

4) If you have suffer a grounding, always check your weed hatch for propeller obstruction as well as the water trap and impeller for blockages.

Quick check: Is water still coming out of exhaust or water outlet? If there are any signs of overheating, moor up immediate and investigate or ask an engineer to attend.

For step-by-step instructions on how to deal with engine failure, fouled propellers and overheated engines order the Essential Skipper guide for just £6.95.

Image credit: Elsie esq

Hitting an underwater obstacle The risk of hitting underwater obstacles also increases as water levels drop. It is worth remembering that the Fens, Broads, Trent and Thames waterways are subject to varying water levels, which can catch any boater unawares.

Make sure you are familiar with which waterways are subject to change and touch base with the local authority if have any doubts.

1) If you hit an obstacle, you may find that the engine cuts out, you hear an unusual noise, the engine misses a beat or vibration suddenly increases.

2) If this occurs moor up and check your propeller for obstruction or damage.

3) Once on the move again, be aware of chattering or crunching noises coming from gearbox, leaks in the bilges or an increase in vibration, as these are all classic signs that further damage may have occurred.

For step-by-step instructions on how to deal with engine failure, fouled propellers and overheated engines order the Essential Skipper guide for just £6.95.