That’s the message from County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS) as it urges young people not to take risks near the water this summer.
To mark Drowning Prevention Week, (June 15 to 22) Firefighters and their water safety partners are warning that while popular open water spots across the North East look appealing for a dip on a hot day, there are many dangers lurking underneath the surface.
The awareness week, led by the Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK), is targeted at children and young people ahead of the summer holidays and aims to highlight key water safety advice to prevent accidental drownings.
Allan Hobson, Station Manager of Community Safety at CDDFRS, said: “Although water looks inviting, there are many hazards and dangers below the surface of the water that you cannot see.
“This includes strong undercurrents which can drag and hold even the most confident swimmers underneath the surface of the water.
“Despite the warm weather, the water can still be cold enough to induce cold water shock which can seriously affect your ability to control your breathing and prevent you from swimming to safety.
“We are calling on the public not to enter open water without adequate training and supervision as the consequences can be life threatening.
“If you get into difficulty in the water and cannot reach a point of safety, try to float on your back and shout for help.
“Don’t let your favourite spot, become your final one.”
CDDFRS is urging people not to enter the water if they see someone in difficulty and instead follow its Call, Tell, Throw advice:
- Call 999 and ask for the Fire Service, or the Coastguard if you’re at the beach.
- Explain where you are. You can use landmarks or the ‘what3words’ app for the exact location.
- Tell the person in the water not to panic and to float on their back.
- Throw them something that floats such as lifebelts or throw bags if nearby.
Allan continued: “If you see others in trouble in the water, do not enter the water.
“Call 999 and ask for the Fire Service or the Coastguard.
“Look at what else you can use if there is no lifesaving equipment, even a ball can help.
“If they are attached to a rope, make sure you hold or secure the end so you can pull the person in.
“Remember, the person will always need medical attention when they get out of the water even if they seem fine, as they may have hypothermia or water in the lungs.”
CDDFRS is working with partners as part of the County Durham Open Water Safety Group to raise awareness of the dangers in and around water and promote key safety messages.
QUOTES FROM PARTNERS
Durham County Council chairs the County Durham Open Water Safety Group.
Cllr John Shuttleworth, the authority’s Cabinet member for community safety, who is also chair of County Durham and Darlington Combined Fire Authority, said: “We’re looking forward to a fine summer and know many people will be spending their time at our beautiful county’s rivers, lakes, and beaches in the coming months.
“We hope they enjoy themselves when doing so but it is really important they bear in mind that going in the water comes with risks and we would encourage them to take great care if doing so.
“It is also worth taking time to familiarise yourself with safety advice issued by the fire service and others if you’re planning to spend time in or around water.”
Graham Hall, Darlington Borough Council’s Head of Community Safety, said: “Accidental drownings are preventable and we’re working closely with our partners and the RLSS UK to spread the word and raise awareness of the Water Safety Code and the right skills that can help keep children, young people and adults safe.”
Darren Green, Head of Operations at North East Ambulance Service, said: “As the weather gets warmer we can receive more calls from patients who have found themselves in trouble or unwell in open bodies of water.
“Drowning Prevention Week is a great opportunity to be more aware of water safety and to be extra vigilant when enjoying our waterways and coastline.
“We encourage people to stay safe and be alert.
“Even when water may appear calm and inviting on a warm day, it can sometimes be deceptive.
“Please think carefully before entering the water.”
Tom Bell, Northumbrian Water’s Assistant Operations Manager for Waterside Parks, said: “We are proud to be supporting Drowning Prevention Week along with our partners.
“We look after many beautiful parks and reservoirs which may seem tempting for a dip on a hot day, but for everyone’s safety, entering the water at these sites is not permitted unless through one of our authorised clubs.
“Our reservoirs are operational, with many hidden dangers underneath the water, including unknown depths, extremely cold water, machinery, and really strong underwater currents as the water is pumped from the reservoir through to the water supply chain.
“Even the strongest of swimmers can get into serious difficulty, so please enjoy our sites safely.”
A Durham Constabulary spokeswoman said: “This is an extremely important message as the weather begins to warm up and the temptation to cool off in rivers or open water increases.
“But water that looks calm and inviting on the surface can hide hidden danger underneath, such as rocks and discarded rubbish to strong undercurrents.
“Even on the hottest of days, the water temperature can still be extremely cold. This can trigger cold water shock which can leave you breathless and helpless in seconds.
“Please, always remember to respect the water to keep you and those around you safe.”
For more water safety advice, visit the CDDFRS website here.
More details on the Royal Life Saving Society UK's Drowning Prevention Week can be found here.
