Code to make Broads safer

Three people died in accidents on the broads this summer

Boat operators on the Broads have put forward plans for a new code of conduct for people using the waterways next year.

Three people were killed on the broads in Norfolk and Suffolk this summer and boat operators are taking action to bolster safety procedures.

Working with the Broads Authority, boat operators were producing a voluntary code for river users which they hope will be in ready in time for next year's busy spring season.

The policy would provide rules about when lifejackets should be worn and also look at safety aspects surrounding hire boats.

Jonathan Richardson, a safety officer with the Broads Authority, said: "It will be looking at lifejackets and whether to make them compulsory, when to wear them and where they should be in a boat.

"It also looks at the stability and design of the crafts in the first place as well as the handover procedures which are used when people are told how to handle the boat."

It is hoped when a voluntary code of conduct has been accepted and proved to be workable the policy could become law.