Be safe in the water this Summer

Being outside and enjoying the water is great for your physical and mental health and wellbeing. However, we need to respect the water and know what to do if things go wrong.

Accidental drowning incidents increase in summer months as we head to lakes and rivers to cool down.

Nearly 50% of people who accidentally drowned in 2020 had no intention of entering the water. Many others underestimate the risk of jumping into cold water. In both instances the effects of cold water shock and not knowing how to self rescue can cause even the strongest swimmers to drown.

Even on a warm day the temperature in open water can remain very cold, causing a physical reaction that can make it difficult to control breathing, cause panic and make it difficult to swim.

If you do find yourself in difficulty in the water, don’t panic, fight your instinct to thrash around, lean back in the water and float on your back until the effects of cold water shock pass. Then you can call for help or swim to safety.

If you see someone is in trouble in water, call 999.