With the re-introduction of student life back into Bath, we have decided to re-feature the Avon Fire & Rescue Service campaign highlighting the dangers of drinking alcohol near the water in a bid to ensure revellers in Bath stay safe.
“Make sure river water isn’t your last drink” was the message to those out enjoying the sunshine in the run up to the August Bank Holiday weekend, we’re re-highlighting this for all new students to the City. The warning comes in response to the number of rescues from water Avon Fire & Rescue Service has to attend in the city each year, many of them alcohol related.
Firefighters trained in water rescue at Bath Fire Station attend on average one water related incident every month. Crews were also involved in searches for the student James Bubear who was tragically found dead in the River Avon following a night out in Bath.
Group Manager Denis McCann from Avon Fire & Rescue Service said: “We’re realistic and understand that in the warm weather people may want to be out by the water, drinking alcohol. All we ask is that they enjoy themselves safely.
“Rivers, canals and open water can present a real danger if you’ve had a drink. The water can be extremely cold, and added to the effects of alcohol, can dramatically affect the reactions of even the strongest swimmer.
“We’re urging visitors and residents of Bath to think carefully about how they are getting home at the end of the night. If your walk home takes you past water could you think about an alternative route, getting a taxi, drinking less alcohol or having a glass of water between each drink to help you keep your wits about you?”
The campaign is being supported by Bath & North East Somerset Council, Bath and North East Somerset NHS, Bath Pubwatch and the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA).
Peter Cornall, Head of leisure safety at RoSPA, said: “Trips and slips near the waterside cause a large number of drownings in the UK each year.
“We would encourage people to think about the risks and to plan their route home following a night out – which is exactly what this initiative seeks to do.
“Anybody faced with an emergency situation should call 999 first. Anyone attempting to help, should try to do so without putting their own life at risk.”
Over the next few weeks you’ll probably see an increase to the number of advertisements we display regarding this campaign, this is part of the support we are giving this campaign to keep the residents of Bath safe.