Avon Fire & Rescue Service is urging residents and visitors to the area to take extra care when celebrating over the festive season, especially near water.
Photo © Avon Fire & Rescue Service
The fire service is supporting the Royal Life Saving Society’s (RLSS) ‘Don’t Drink and Drown’ campaign, which aims to prevent accidents involving alcohol and open water.
Over the last six years, almost half of the accidental drownings of 18-25 year olds were substance-related.
People who are out celebrating this festive period are being reminded to plan ahead, stay with friends, and ensure everyone has a safe route home.
Jacq Hardwick, Water Safety Lead at Avon Fire & Rescue Service, said: “We see the devastating consequences of people underestimating the risks posed by water, particularly when alcohol is involved.
“Cold water, slippery banks, and impaired judgement can lead to tragic accidents. We’re urging everyone to take care this festive season – the best nights out always end with getting home safely.”
The following advice has been offered to help ensure you get home safely:
- Plan your homeward journey in advance. Know how you’re getting home and stick to your plan.
- Avoid walking near water after drinking. Alcohol impairs your balance, coordination, and judgement, making it easy to fall into water.
- Remember no friend left behind, go together, stay together, get home together.
- Never enter the water yourself. If you see someone in trouble in the water call 999 and ask for the fire service or coastguard.
Jacq added: “We also want to remind people of the dangers of cold-water shock and knowing the importance of ‘Float to Live’.”
