New water safety campaign launches today
Following our recent water safety demonstration for Be Water Aware Week, today marks the start of the National Water Safety Forums (NWSF) #RespectTheWater campaign.
The campaign urges you to respect the water and to learn about safety around water.
This year, the focus is on how to help if someone is in trouble in the water.
In 2023, there were 236 lives lost in the UK because of accidental water related fatalities. Inland water ways are the leading locations for accidental drownings and many of those who lost their lives were not intending to enter the water.
As the summer approaches people will spend more time enjoying themselves near the water. Although the temperatures may be warmer, the water may still be dangerously cold, posing risks such as cold-water shock. The NWSF are reminding people to think about their safety around water by learning about risks and knowing what to do in the event of a water-related emergency.
You can learn more about the campaign and how to stay safe on the Respect the Water Website.
If you see someone in trouble in the water:
The NWSF suggests that you call, tell and throw:
- Call 999.
- Tell the struggling person to float on their back.
- Throw them something that floats such as a life ring, inflatable toy, or bottle. Read about how to use a throw line.
You can read more about water safety on our website.
