Our water safety message

Top tips for staying safe around water

• Don't jump or dive in as the depth may vary and there can be unseen dangerous things such as shallow water, broken glass or other sharp objects.
  
  
• Don't go in near weirs, locks, pipes and sluices. These and some other water features are often linked with strong currents - these dangers can often be beyond the ability of even good swimmers to cope with safely.
  
  
• Take notice of any safety information, warning signs or flags. Know what the signs mean and do as they advise.
  
  
• Realise that inland waters can be very cold no matter how warm the weather. Those going into cold water can get cramp and experience breathing difficulties. Never venture out onto ice covered lakes, ponds or canals. The thickness of ice can vary and you could fall through.
  
  
• Think about the hazards near the waters edge. Banks can be unstable and suddenly collapse. They can also be very slippery when wet and if you fall in it is often difficult to get out of the water.
  
  
• Use appropriate safety equipment for your activity - this could include a life jacket or a buoyancy aid and other safety wear such as a helmet.
  
  
• Consider the dangers of using airbeds, inner tubes and other floatation devices. They can be carried away by currents or blown by the wind into deep water and may not keep you afloat.
  
  
• Consuming alcohol may severely impair your ability and judgment when on or in water. If you have been drinking think twice about your safety and of those you may put at risk trying to rescue you. 
  
  
• Get trained in life saving and resuscitation techniques and know what to do in an emergency.
  
  
• Parents and guardians can help keep children in their care safe by:

  - teaching them to swim
  - telling them not to go into water alone, or unsupervised
  - ensuring you know where they are and what they are doing
  - supervising them closely when near any open water
  

• Remember drowning can occur very quickly even in shallow water and the key to keeping safe is not to get into difficulty in the first place. Be extra careful when in or near water - your options in an emergency are very limited and you should not rely on safety equipment being present.

What to do if you see someone in difficulties

• Get help: ring 999 or get someone else to do it. Alternatively if you are on your own without a mobile phone, call for help if you can see people nearby, or go and get help.
  
  
• Think: of your own safety first. Don't put yourself in danger by going into the water to rescue someone - you may get in difficulties in the water too.
  
  
• Look: for any safety equipment close at hand such as lifebuoys or throwing lines.
  
  
• Reach: a stick, scarf or clothes tied together can help you reach the person. Crouch or lie down to avoid being pulled into the water yourself.
  
  
• Throw: a rope is best because you can then pull the person in. If you don't have any rope, throwing something in that will float such as a football or even an empty plastic bottle will help in keeping the person afloat until help arrives.
  
  
• Keep warm: once rescued, keep the casualty warm and ensure they get medical help as soon as possible.