27 people have accidentally drowned in Lincolnshire over the past 5 years
It's after a 40% rise in the number of cases from 2019 to 2020
Last updated 29th Jun 2021
We can reveal 27 people accidentally drowned in Lincolnshire over the past 5 years.
It's after a 40% increase in the number of cases.
In 2019 there were 5, rising to 7 in 2020.
Last year, the county had the 10th highest number of accidental drownings.
Nicole Herrington is from the Royal Life Saving Society.
"We've got huge fears now that there'll be a steep rise in incidents this summer, either because swimming pools are still closed because of the pandemic, booking systems or generally because it's a hot day and the water looks rather inviting.
"Another thing that we see a lot of, which is really sad, is drink and drowning.
"So people going on a night out, losing their footing on the way home, falling into the water and not being able to rescue themselves or get out."
Know the facts on accidental drowning in Lincolnshire over the last 5 years.
85% were male
74% were in inland areas like reservoirs, lakes and back gardens
59% never even intended to be in the water.
Campaign to save lives
In the run up to the summer holidays, we're using #GetWaterWise to pass on safety advice in our news, and on our social media feeds.
We hope it can prevent a spike in incidents this summer.
RLSS Director Lee Heard says we are surrounded by opportunities to be in or near water.
"Whatever their age and activity level, everyone should be having fun, creating memories and feeling at ease around the water.
"The inequality in access to swimming and water safety education, and subsequent lack of potential interaction with the water is a big concern."
#GetWaterWise Water safety tips to stay safe this summer
Follow this advice, and stay safe around water
During hot summer days, lakes, rivers, reservoirs and the sea can look really tempting.
But beneath the surface can lie hidden dangers, cold temperatures an unexpected currents.
The Royal Life Saving Society has this advice to stay safe.
Look out for lifeguards
If you're looking for a place to cool off always find a lifeguarded swimming site.
It’s colder than it looks
Water at open water and inland sites is often much colder than it looks, cold water can affect your ability to swim and self-rescue.
Don’t go too far
Always swim parallel to the shore, that way you're never too far away from it.
It's stronger than it looks
Currents in the water can be very strong. If you find yourself caught in a riptide – don't swim against it – you'll tire yourself out. Swim with the current and call for help.
Bring a friend
Always bring a friend when you go swimming so if anything goes wrong you've got someone there to help.