Avon Fire & Rescue Service is urging people in Bath to stay safe when near water, after revealing that it’s been called to 94 water rescues already this year.
The number of water rescues has risen by 16% compared to the same period in 2021.
As the heatwave continues, people may feel like cooling off by jumping in a local lake, pond or river.
Sadly, over 62% of accidental drownings occurred in lakes, ponds and rivers in 2021.
To help keep people safe during this heatwave, the fire service has issued top tips to help you enjoy the water safely:
- Only swim at supervised swimming locations – such as swimming pools, lidos and swimming lakes.
- Never swim alone.
- Always supervise children around and in the water.
- Don’t dive into shallow waters.
- Water and alcohol don’t mix – save the drinks for after your swim.
- If you get into trouble in the water, remember: float to live.
- In the event of an emergency, call 999 first and ask for the Fire Service.
- Don’t try to assist someone from the water’s edge.
- Remember, there are hidden dangers – currents, rocks, rubbish and more beneath the surface that you might not be able to see.
- Download What3Words, it can help us find out exactly where you are in the event of an emergency.
Water rescue specialist firefighters from Bath Fire Station have been out training, to make sure they are well prepared in the event they need to rescue someone from the water.
In the event of an emergency, call 999 before trying to assist from the water’s edge.