Avon Fire & Rescue Service is calling on people across Bath to stay safe in and around water as part of a national campaign.
266 lives were lost to accidental drowning in the UK in 2022.
The safety warning comes as part of The National Fire Chiefs Council’s (NFCC’s) Be Water Aware campaign, which runs from 22nd to 28th April.
Its aim is to raise awareness about the risk of accidental drowning and provide safety advice ahead of the warmer months.
Statistics from the Water Incident Database show that 40% of people who accidentally drowned had no intention of entering the water.
Slips trips and falls were often the cause of these accidents.
Many people underestimate the dangers of jumping into water or taking a dip to cool off especially those with limited experience of outdoor swimming. Unseen hazards and cold water shock can mean even strong swimmers get into trouble.
Jacq Hardwick, Water Safety Lead at AF&RS said: “Males account for 87% of these accidental fatalities, 60% of which are in inland waters such as rivers, reservoirs and lakes.”
Simple tips to help stay safe include:
- Stick to designated pathways and stay clear of the water’s edge.
- Don’t enter the water after drinking alcohol.
- Walk a safe route home after drinking, with friends and away from water.
- Cold water shock can kill, walking into the water rather than jumping in can help reduce the risk.
Jacq added: “As the statistics show, many people don’t expect their time near water to turn into an emergency, so knowing what to do if you or someone else is in trouble in the water is lifesaving advice.”
Never put yourself at risk by entering the water in an attempt to help a person or an animal in trouble.
If someone is in trouble in the water, the best way to help is by staying calm, staying on land, and remember, Call, Tell, Throw:
- Call 999 for the emergency services.
- Tell the struggling person to float to live, on their back in a starfish shape.
- Throw them something that floats.
