Stay safe around open water in Stamford & Rutland
The RLSS are reminding people of the dangers
Safety campaigners are asking people to #RespectTheWater and avoid becoming another accidental drowning statistic.
Last year, 226 people accidentally drowned in the UK with 44 of those in August.
#RespectTheWater aims to provide simple life saving advice to help members of the public take personal responsibility for their own and their family’s safety, with a focus on knowing how to help other people in trouble.
Safety advice includes:
- Don’t jump into the unknown – there can be hidden hazards below the water
- Stay within your limits when swimming
- Avoid alcohol on or in the water
- Make sure that you supervise children
- Use and wear the right safety equipment
Last year over 60% of accidental drownings occurred inland, in environments such as rivers, canals, reservoirs, quarries and lakes.
Many people are unaware of the dangers that cold, freshwater settings can pose, even when air temperatures are high.
Matt Croxall from the Royal Lifesaving Society (RLSS) said:
"This is a key time for drownings and why we are getting behind the National Water Safety Forums #RespectThe Water campaign."
"If you're going into open water stop and think, asses the situation and make sure you know the dangers. Stay together and don't go out swimming by yourself, Call 999 if you see someone in trouble, don't go in and follow them and then float to live."
You can find out more on how to Float To Live here.