Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service join drowning prevention calls

Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service (DWFRS) is joining calls to boost water safety amid a worldwide push to prevent drownings.

The organisation tells us it's seeing more water related incidents throughout the year, but a peak in the summer when people go for a swim to cool off.

DWFRS Group Manager, Greg Izon told us there are additional incidents during the winter, when flooding occurs.

He said that hotspots often see local people getting in trouble: "They become quite relaxed because they've been there once or twice. They think they know the area, so it can catch people out. The rivers will always catch people out."

Greg added that the South West region has seen fatalities as a result of people getting into trouble in water.

He warns us that water can be immensely powerful and can sweep people off their feet and "there's nothing you can do about it".

Float to live, if in trouble

Two of the biggest dangers around water safety are cold water shock and underwater hazards.

Greg told us that he himself has suffered from cold water shock, describing it as a "bizarre experience" and "debilitating", even though he had the protective clothing on.

He urges anyone going into water to acclimatise their body slowly to avoid the shock. "Don't just jump straight in off a riverbank because the rivers are colder generally than the sea as well, and that catches people out," he said.

He told us that the underwater hazards can range from natural risks, such as reeds and tree roots, to man-made objects such as trolleys, fences and gates that can trap people.

Greg also said it's vital that we avoid going into water where we can't see the bottom or what's below the surface.

We're told we must "float to live" should we get into trouble.

Greg explains that we should spread our arms and legs into a star shape and stay calm. Once we begin to float, we can start calling for help.

He advises us to be with other people if we are going to venture into water, to boost the chances of someone being able to alert emergency services quickly.

We're also strongly advised not to go into water if we've been drinking alcohol.

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