ROYAL Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service has issued a reminder to residents around water safety as the weather warms up and summer approaches.
This week, RBFRS is running a campaign urging people to ‘Be Water Aware’, with a view to reducing the number of drowning incidents around the UK with some simple advice.
Those thinking of swimming are urged to consider exit points and any emergency exits before getting in; and also to think twice before swimming in open water, such as rivers or lakes.
Natural waterways can be deceptive around what’s beneath the surface, where there could be unseen currents and reeds, which could pull you under.
People are encouraged to swim in a group or at an organised event, which is a safer way of taking part in open water swimming, as well as wearing brightly-coloured swimming attire to be more visible.
The RBFRS advises heavily against “tombstoning”–jumping into open water, especially from a height–which can cause cold water shock and injury on dangers under the surface.
People are urged to steer clear of the water’s edge, especially amid high water and especially when under the influence of alcohol.
Never enter the water to try and save someone, including pets, as you can also get into difficulty in the water.
Gail Muirhead, Prevention Manager at RBFRS, says: “The reality is that cold water shock can kill.
“Anything below 15°C is defined as cold water and the average sea temperatures around the UK are just 12°C.
“Therefore, cold water shock can happen at any time of year – even in the summer.”
She explained: “Cold water shock has a dramatic effect on your body. It can cause you to breathe in water, weakens your muscles and can trigger abnormal heart rhythms which can be fatal.
“If you find yourself experiencing cold water shock in the water, remember to ‘float to live’. Float on your back until the effects wear off – it’s usually around 90 seconds – before either swimming to safety or calling for help.
“If you see someone else in trouble in the water, call 999 and ask for the fire and rescue service or the coastguard if you are at the beach.”
A full list of safety advice is available via: rbfrs.co.uk/your-safety/water-safety
