Water Safety.
The Royal Life Saving Society UK work tirelessly to educate people to enjoy water safely, to keep their family and friends safe and to know what to do in an emergency. They also offer valuable support and counselling services to friends and families that have been affected by drowning incidents. Their website provides a range of advice and materials for people of all ages.
Consider the risks.
· Access and egress – Vegetation and steep banks.
· Cold water shock.
· Underwater hazards e.g. bridge foundations, metalwork, pumping station outfalls, abandoned vehicles and shopping trolleys.
· Other water users – anglers, boaters, swimmers, paddlers.
· Water quality, pollution and Weil’s disease.
· Water flow, currents and a variable depth of water.
· Do not jump in from bridges, locks and other structures.
· Do not trespass, keep to Public Rights of Way.
Know what to do if you get into trouble.
· Reduce the risk e.g. do not access water alone, use a flotation device, be visible.
· Float to live if you get in trouble – lie on your back.
· Never jump in to help someone else in trouble – call 999, talk to the person and find a stick, rope or long object to reach out to them.
Provide parental advice and adult supervision.
· Talk to your children about water safety and explain the risks.
· Provide them with the suitable equipment and training.
· Know where they are and ensure suitable supervision.