Be Water Aware this summer, urges Avon Fire & Rescue Service
As we all enjoy the early May bank holiday we're told water rescues are needed almost weekly
It might not be that warm this bank holiday but if you fancy a swim this summer, think twice before going in lakes, rivers or harbours.
That's what the Avon Fire and Rescue Service are pleading after having to rescue three people from the Bristol Harbour over the Easter Weekend.
It comes as Sunday (May 1) marked the final day of a week of action from the National Fire Chiefs Council called Be Water Aware.
"Almost half the number of people who end up in difficulty in the water did not intend to enter the water, and therefore water rescues are unfortunately a frequent occurrence," a statement put out by the Avon Fire Service, reads.
From June 2019 to June 2021 the fire service was called to more than 70 incidents involving water just in Bristol and 26 of those incidents led to either serious injury or death.
Last bank holiday weekend over Easter, Bath firefighters took part in a water rescue training drill, which involved checking out local water hazards, and carrying out tethered swimming, mechanical advantage and throw line training.
In Bristol crews out training on Good Friday by chance came across a drunk man on the Harbourside who, in their words, "had found himself unexpectedly in the water."
Thankfully they were able to rescue him, while later that same night crews were needed to rescue two more people from the harbour.
Nearly 50 percent of people who accidentally drowned in 2020 had no intention of entering the water.
Many others underestimate the risk of jumping into cold water, which, even in hot weather can induce cold water shock.
In both instances the effects of cold-water shock and not knowing how to self-rescue can cause even the strongest swimmers to drown.
Temporary Area Manager for Risk Reduction, Steve Quinton said: “Our service area is full of beauty spots, popular for picnics, water sports and other recreational activities.
"We want local residents to enjoy the local area, whilst heeding water safety advice.
“At the Avon Fire and Rescue Service, we’re acutely aware of the dangers that waterways pose to our communities and know all too well the consequences that risk-taking can have.
"Knowing how to reduce your risk, and what to do in a crisis will allow you to have a safe summer beside the water.”
If you do find yourself in difficulty in the water, the advice is don’t panic.
Fight your instinct to thrash around, lean back in the water and float on your back until the effects of cold-water shock pass.
Then you can call for help or swim to safety.
If you spot someone else in trouble in water, you should call 999 immediately.
At the coast ask for the coastguard. If you are inland, ask for the fire service.
You should never enter the water to attempt a rescue as that would put your own life in danger as well.
For more advice on how to stay safe, visit the Avon Fire and Rescue Service website here.