Water safety campaign highlights dangers in Shropshire

Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service has initiated a Water Safety Campaign on Monday, 29th July, by ‘yarn bombing’ the county.

As reported by Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service, the campaign is supported by the Newport Knit and Natter group, Castlefield Yarn Bombers, and Liz Brown from Welshpool.

The county will be decorated with colourful knitted items to raise awareness about water safety.

Rising accidental drowning statistics in the UK

In 2023, the UK recorded 236 accidental drownings according to the Water Incident Database.

Statistics reveal that 50% of these incidents involved people who had no intention of entering the water.

Everyday activities such as walking and running accounted for 48% of accidental fatalities, with 63% occurring at inland waters.

Cathryn Williams, Water Safety Officer, emphasised the hidden dangers: “In Shropshire we have beautiful spots to spend time near the water and summer is an amazing time to enjoy our beautiful waterways.

“However, rivers and weirs, canals, quarries and lakes can also be very dangerous.

“The water is cold which can lead to cold water shock, there could be currents or underwater objects.

“Warmer weather is directly linked to an increase in fatal drowning incidents, 46% of drownings occur in summer months and this rises to 75% among 13–17-year-olds.”

Precautions and safety measures

Williams added: “The majority of people in distress in the water had no intention of entering at all, so it is really important to be aware when spending any time near the water.

“The area can be muddy and slippery which can cause people to slip in.

“It can then be difficult to climb back out as the river’s edge can resemble a cliffside.”

She advised families to learn basic water safety and what to do in emergencies: “Make sure your family knows basic water safety and what to do if they find themselves in the water unexpectedly or if they spot someone in trouble: stop and think, stay together, float, call 999 ask for fire service if inland.”

Safety tips and emergency actions

The campaign promotes several safety tips:

• Stop and think – look for signs of danger.
• Do not get too close to the water’s edge.
• Stay together: Don’t walk alone.
• Don’t walk by the water while intoxicated.

In case of accidental immersion, remember to float:

• Tilt your head back.
• Stretch out your arms and legs.
• Move your hands.
• Try to relax and stay calm.
• Shout for help.

For assisting someone in distress:

• Call 999 and ask for the Fire Service if inland.
• Look for a throwline, life ring, or something that floats like a football.

For more information on water safety, visit Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service.