Name: Narrow Escapes
Genre: Documentary
Released: 2024-04-29
Rating: 8.3
Cast: K.C Finn, Ian Gain

Unbelievable that a third series of this appalling programme has been commissioned. The continuity is terrible-suggesting impossible routes and timescales- but it is the background message which is so damaging.

While it does feature the occasional person who is using, or learning to use, the canals in a safe and responsible manor, this is very much the exception. The show seems to delight in portraying dangerous, selfish and incompetent practices as the norm. Perhaps the producers were taken in by the over-inflated sense of importance of the participants, presumably chosen because they have a few followers on social media. Maybe it was a deliberate intention to "entertain", but the message it sends out is so harmful. Would we glamorise drunk or reckless driving on the roads? The myth that nothing bad can happen at 4 mph is just that, a myth. Canals can be, and are, lethal if not treated with respect. Fortunately most canal users act responsibly or soon learn to do so. Giving a public platform to idiots who cannot be bothered to follow basic rules or accept their actions may have serious consequences for others is irresponsible. The canals are a pleasant and enjoyable asset which are easily accessible to all, but nevertheless do require a few basic skills to be learned. If you want to join in, don't base your expectations on this programme, there are other far more accurate portrayals of canal life available.

The documentary is a form of non-fiction storytelling that aims to present factual information, insights, and perspectives on real-world subjects, events, issues, or people. Documentaries can cover a wide range of topics, including history, science, culture, social issues, nature, biographies, and more.

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Narrow Escapes

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