Why UK emergency services want everyone to be water aware this summer
Iain Hoey
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RNLI-led campaign calls for public to be water aware
Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service has reported that a water safety demonstration was held at Cullercoats Bay this week to promote drowning prevention in advance of World Drowning Prevention Day.
More than 40 people representing local and regional organisations entered the sea to form a floating circle, symbolising the ‘Float to Live’ technique supported by the RNLI and partner agencies.
The event aimed to raise awareness of how simple physical actions can improve survival in the water, particularly during the school holidays when recreational use of the UK’s rivers, lakes and coastline increases.
World Drowning Prevention Day is observed internationally on 25 July, with this year’s theme focused on promoting life-saving knowledge and reducing drowning deaths.
The ‘Float to Live’ method encourages individuals in distress to tilt their head back, stay calm, move their limbs gently, and allow their body to float in place while awaiting help or regaining control.
Emergency services highlight summer water risks
Steve Thomas, Head of Prevention and Education at Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, said: “With the school summer holidays underway and continued warm weather, we know more people will be heading to the coast, rivers, and lakes to cool off and enjoy the water. Whether it’s a day at the beach or a family break involving water-based activities, it’s vital that everyone understands the risks.”
Thomas added: “As a fire and rescue service, we’re urging the public to be water aware. What starts as fun can quickly turn dangerous without the right knowledge.
“The ‘Float to Live’ campaign provides simple, life-saving advice that can make all the difference in an emergency.”
He said: “We’re also encouraging parents and carers to talk to their children about water safety. Sharing these messages could save a life.”
The service is one of several regional partners involved in the campaign, which prioritises prevention through education and practical guidance.
RNLI stresses benefits of floating to survive
Nick Ayers, RNLI Regional Water Safety Lead, said: “The Circle of Life event at Cullercoats Bay was a powerful visual reminder of the importance of water safety and partnership working.
“Seeing over 40 individuals coming together to promote Floating shows just how committed we all are to reducing drowning.”
Ayers added: “Float to Live is a simple but effective technique that gives people the best chance of surviving if they get into trouble in the water.
“When panic sets in, floating helps you to regain control, catch your breath and stay calm until help arrives or you can self-rescue.”
He said: “As we approach World Drowning Prevention Day, we want everyone heading to the coast, rivers or inland waters to remember this life-saving advice. It really can make the difference between life and death.”
He continued: “We want everyone to enjoy the water in a safe way, by practicing this lifesaving technique will enhance your enjoyment in the water, but also preparing yourself in case something goes wrong.”
He added: “We encourage everyone to practice this when you are next at a supervised location.”
Seasonal focus on increased drowning risks
According to Jo Talbot, a Director at the Royal Life Saving Society UK, drowning deaths in the UK are more frequent during the warmer months.
Talbot said: “A disproportionate number of people drown in the UK between May and August, and we see an increased number of drownings in periods of extreme heat.”
She added: “With the warmer weather and summer school holidays beginning, it is vital that everybody is aware of how to stay water smart and safe this summer.
“World Drowning Prevention Day serves as an important reminder to everyone to equip themselves with the tools and knowledge to stay safe around water.”
She said: “When choosing a location to enjoy water this summer, we urge the public to visit somewhere with a lifeguard whenever possible, to actively encourage conversations with little ones around the dangers of water, as well as familiarise themselves with the key Float technique and the Water Safety Code to help prevent any tragedies and ensure they stay safe.”
Public encouraged to practice technique and share message
The RNLI advises that the five components of ‘Float to Live’ are:
- Tilt the head back to submerge the ears
- Relax and control breathing
- Move hands and legs gently
- Accept that legs may sink
- Practise floating in a supervised setting
The campaign suggests that sharing these steps could improve survival chances in cold or open water emergencies.
Organisations involved in the Circle of Life event included representatives from emergency services, councils, health bodies, and local safety partnerships.
Supporters are being asked to spread the message, especially among children and young people, as part of wider summer safety outreach.
Water aware safety push marks World Drowning Prevention Day in the UK: Summary
Cullercoats Bay in North Tyneside hosted a water safety demonstration this week.
Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service reported the event as part of World Drowning Prevention Day.
Over 40 representatives entered the water to promote the ‘Float to Live’ technique.
The technique is supported by the RNLI and other safety organisations.
The method includes tilting the head, relaxing, and floating until help arrives.
Steve Thomas of Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service called for greater public awareness.
Nick Ayers of the RNLI said floating can improve survival chances during water emergencies.
Jo Talbot of the Royal Life Saving Society UK highlighted summer as a high-risk period.
The event focused on prevention through education and public engagement.
Participants encouraged practice of the floating technique in supervised settings.
World Drowning Prevention Day is observed on 25 July.
The campaign is aimed at reducing water-related fatalities across the UK.