With the weather warming up, Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service are reminding people to take care in and around the water.
40 percent of people who accidentally drown in the UK had no intention of entering the water. That’s why the Service is supporting the National Fire Chiefs Council’s ‘Be Water Aware’ Campaign.
The campaign, which runs this year from Monday, 27 April to Sunday, 3 May, aims to reduce the number of drownings across the UK by promoting simple advice that can help people stay safe.
Gail Muirhead, Prevention Manager at RBFRS, says: “The reality is that cold water shock can kill. Anything below 15°C is defined as cold water and the average sea temperatures around the UK are just 12°C. Therefore, cold water shock can happen at any time of year – even in the summer.
“Cold water shock has a dramatic effect on your body. It can cause you to breathe in water, weakens your muscles and can trigger abnormal heart rhythms which can be fatal.
“If you find yourself experiencing cold water shock in the water, remember to ‘float to live’. Float on your back until the effects wear off – it’s usually around 90 seconds – before either swimming to safety or calling for help.
“If you see someone else in trouble in the water, call 999 and ask for the fire and rescue service or the coastguard if you are at the beach.”
Be Water Aware by following these safety tips:
Spending Time In the Water
- If you are thinking of entering the water, consider your exit point, and any emergency exits, before you get in.
- Do not jump into open water, often referred to as ‘tombstoning’, as this can cause potentially fatal cold water shock, even on the warmest day.
- Think twice before swimming in open water such as rivers or lakes. You have no idea what’s beneath the surface – there could be unseen currents and reeds, which could pull you under.
- Swimming in a group, or better still at an organised event, is a safer way of starting open water swimming – never swim alone.
- Wear a brightly coloured swim hat and consider a safety buoy to make yourself more visible.
Spending Time Near the Water
- When running or walking next to the water, stay clear of the edges. Riverbanks and cliff edges may be unstable and give way – particularly after bad weather.
- Never enter the water to try and save someone. Shout to the person in the water “swim to me!” and use any lifebelts or throw bags that may be nearby.
- Look out for trip or slip hazards – pay attention to your footing and avoid walking or running next to water if levels are high.
- If you are walking the dog and they end up in the water, do not go in after them.
- Do not enter the water if you have been drinking and avoid walking routes near water if you are under the influence of alcohol. Alcohol affects your ability to get yourself out of trouble, so find another route home instead. Look out for your friends and make sure they get home safely.
Visit the Service’s website to read more water safety advice.