Drowning Prevention Week launches nationwide campaign

“Stop and think about your relationship with water”

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, in partnership with the Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK), is urging people to stay safe and be mindful of water dangers during Drowning Prevention Week.

As reported by Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue, the summer months see an increase in people exploring waterways and enjoying lighter nights.

From 15th to 22nd June 2024, RLSS UK will conduct its nationwide water safety campaign, Drowning Prevention Week, for the tenth year.

The campaign aims to provide lifesaving knowledge, ensuring people enjoy the water safely.

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service will collaborate with partners to relay important safety messages, including the RLSS Water Safety Code: Stop and Think, Stay Together, Call 999, and Float.

Importance of water safety highlighted by experts

Tommy Richardson, TWFRS Water Safety Lead, emphasized the importance of water safety: “Drowning Prevention Week is an opportunity for everyone to stop and think about their relationship with water.

“Most days, it will be our friend, but in some extreme situations, it becomes our foe.”

He further highlighted the dangers of cold water shock: “The average water temperature here in the North East is approximately 10 to 13 degrees all year round, which means people will quickly feel the effects of cold water shock on their bodies.

“We strongly advise that people swim on a lifeguarded beach, between the red and yellow flags, or indoors at a lifeguard-attended swimming pool.”

RLSS UK aims to equip families with safety skills

Matt Croxall, Charity Director at RLSS UK, stressed the importance of water safety knowledge: “With the warmer summer days on the horizon, we will inevitably see people flock to open water sites across the UK and Ireland, as well as taking opportunities to enjoy the water at home in the garden.

“We want to ensure that everyone can enjoy water this summer and beyond by having the knowledge to do so safely.”

He added that RLSS UK works to provide families with the skills and knowledge needed to stay safe in and around water.

Emergency services and local councils support the campaign

Alun Ross, HART and resilience manager from North East Ambulance Service, noted the increase in water-related incidents during warmer weather: “Unfortunately, as the weather gets warmer we can receive more calls to young people and adults who have found themselves in trouble or unwell in open bodies of water.

“This makes our call for more water safety awareness and vigilance around this time of year even more important for Drowning Prevention Week.”

Danny Hogg, Operations Manager at North Tyneside Council, highlighted the council’s efforts: “As we enter the summer season, it’s vital that everyone takes extra care to stay safe, especially around water.

“We are dedicating additional resources this summer to ensure people can enjoy themselves safely and responsibly at the coast.”

He emphasized the importance of awareness and precaution: “While water activities can be enjoyable, it’s important to be aware of the risks and take necessary precautions.

“Our teams are working closely with our partners to provide a safe environment for all.

“Let’s make safety a priority so everyone can have a fun and incident-free summer.”