Professional safety campaign targets inland water risks to reduce accidental drowning

by Featured NewsIndustry CommentSafety

National fire chiefs highlight male accidental drowning risks

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has launched its annual Be Water Aware campaign to address data showing that over 80% of accidental drowning victims in the UK are male.

Running from 27 April to 3 May, the initiative warns that 1,604 people died in accidental water incidents between 2019 and 2024.

Statistics reveal that approximately half of these individuals did not intend to enter the water.

Slips, trips and falls are cited as leading causes of these fatalities.

Over 50% of these incidents took place in inland waters including rivers, lakes and canals.

Gavin Ellis, NFCC Drowning Prevention lead, said: “Most people would be surprised to hear how many lives are lost simply because people were spending time in and around water.

“These incidents can happen without warning, and something as simple as a slip near the water’s edge can have serious consequences, particularly when cold water shock takes effect.

“We know that males make up the majority of those those who lose their lives in these incidents, which is why it is so important that this message reaches them.

“This is not just about risk-taking behaviour.

“These are often everyday situations that can quickly lead to serious outcomes, which is why it is important to stay alert around water, even in familiar settings.

“As the weather improves, fire services across the country, alongside colleagues in HM Coastguard and the RNLI, can face large numbers of calls to help people in difficulty in water.

“We want people to enjoy being outdoors, but to be mindful of the risks around water, particularly at this time of year.”

Operational data reveals impact of cold water shock

London Fire Brigade (LFB) reported that 40% of its water-related callouts occur between May and August.

The brigade has attended more than 1,500 water incidents in the last five years, with 103 non-suicide drowning fatalities recorded in the capital.

Data indicates that 28% of these incidents are concentrated in the riverside boroughs of Tower Hamlets, Southwark, Lambeth and Richmond.

LFB recently attended a fatal incident in the River Brent where a woman and a boy died despite rescue efforts by crews.

Assistant Commissioner for Prevention and Protection Pam Oparaocha said: “Our thoughts are with the family and their loved ones following this tragedy and we ask that their privacy is respected at this difficult time.

“Sadly, over 100 people have died in non-suicide related drownings in London over the last five years, so this Be Water Aware Week we want to remind Londoners about the real and immediate dangers of open water.

“We know that the warmer weather can tempt people to cool off in rivers, reservoirs and lakes, but even in hot weather most inland water in London remains below 16°C, which can cause cold water shock and lead to drowning.

“Many Londoners are not aware that despite its calm surface, open water can have strong currents, hidden debris, slippery edges, and sudden drops in depth – all of which could prove fatal.

“If you are planning to swim outdoors, do so only in designated areas and ensure that lifeguards and safety equipment are present.

“If you see someone else in difficulty, don’t enter the water yourself.

“Call 999 and try to throw them something that floats.”

Safety advice for the public includes following the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) Float to Live technique by tilting the head back and maintaining calm breathing.

Why UK emergency services want everyone to be water aware this summer

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetySafety

RNLI-led campaign calls for public to be water aware

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service has reported that a water safety demonstration was held at Cullercoats Bay this week to promote drowning prevention in advance of World Drowning Prevention Day.

More than 40 people representing local and regional organisations entered the sea to form a floating circle, symbolising the ‘Float to Live’ technique supported by the RNLI and partner agencies.

The event aimed to raise awareness of how simple physical actions can improve survival in the water, particularly during the school holidays when recreational use of the UK’s rivers, lakes and coastline increases.

World Drowning Prevention Day is observed internationally on 25 July, with this year’s theme focused on promoting life-saving knowledge and reducing drowning deaths.

The ‘Float to Live’ method encourages individuals in distress to tilt their head back, stay calm, move their limbs gently, and allow their body to float in place while awaiting help or regaining control.

Emergency services highlight summer water risks

Steve Thomas, Head of Prevention and Education at Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, said: “With the school summer holidays underway and continued warm weather, we know more people will be heading to the coast, rivers, and lakes to cool off and enjoy the water. Whether it’s a day at the beach or a family break involving water-based activities, it’s vital that everyone understands the risks.”

Thomas added: “As a fire and rescue service, we’re urging the public to be water aware. What starts as fun can quickly turn dangerous without the right knowledge.

“The ‘Float to Live’ campaign provides simple, life-saving advice that can make all the difference in an emergency.”

He said: “We’re also encouraging parents and carers to talk to their children about water safety. Sharing these messages could save a life.”

The service is one of several regional partners involved in the campaign, which prioritises prevention through education and practical guidance.

RNLI stresses benefits of floating to survive

Nick Ayers, RNLI Regional Water Safety Lead, said: “The Circle of Life event at Cullercoats Bay was a powerful visual reminder of the importance of water safety and partnership working.

“Seeing over 40 individuals coming together to promote Floating shows just how committed we all are to reducing drowning.”

Ayers added: “Float to Live is a simple but effective technique that gives people the best chance of surviving if they get into trouble in the water.

“When panic sets in, floating helps you to regain control, catch your breath and stay calm until help arrives or you can self-rescue.”

He said: “As we approach World Drowning Prevention Day, we want everyone heading to the coast, rivers or inland waters to remember this life-saving advice. It really can make the difference between life and death.”

He continued: “We want everyone to enjoy the water in a safe way, by practicing this lifesaving technique will enhance your enjoyment in the water, but also preparing yourself in case something goes wrong.”

He added: “We encourage everyone to practice this when you are next at a supervised location.”

Seasonal focus on increased drowning risks

According to Jo Talbot, a Director at the Royal Life Saving Society UK, drowning deaths in the UK are more frequent during the warmer months.

Talbot said: “A disproportionate number of people drown in the UK between May and August, and we see an increased number of drownings in periods of extreme heat.”

She added: “With the warmer weather and summer school holidays beginning, it is vital that everybody is aware of how to stay water smart and safe this summer.

“World Drowning Prevention Day serves as an important reminder to everyone to equip themselves with the tools and knowledge to stay safe around water.”

She said: “When choosing a location to enjoy water this summer, we urge the public to visit somewhere with a lifeguard whenever possible, to actively encourage conversations with little ones around the dangers of water, as well as familiarise themselves with the key Float technique and the Water Safety Code to help prevent any tragedies and ensure they stay safe.”

Public encouraged to practice technique and share message

The RNLI advises that the five components of ‘Float to Live’ are:

  • Tilt the head back to submerge the ears
  • Relax and control breathing
  • Move hands and legs gently
  • Accept that legs may sink
  • Practise floating in a supervised setting

The campaign suggests that sharing these steps could improve survival chances in cold or open water emergencies.

Organisations involved in the Circle of Life event included representatives from emergency services, councils, health bodies, and local safety partnerships.

Supporters are being asked to spread the message, especially among children and young people, as part of wider summer safety outreach.

Water aware safety push marks World Drowning Prevention Day in the UK: Summary

Cullercoats Bay in North Tyneside hosted a water safety demonstration this week.

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service reported the event as part of World Drowning Prevention Day.

Over 40 representatives entered the water to promote the ‘Float to Live’ technique.

The technique is supported by the RNLI and other safety organisations.

The method includes tilting the head, relaxing, and floating until help arrives.

Steve Thomas of Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service called for greater public awareness.

Nick Ayers of the RNLI said floating can improve survival chances during water emergencies.

Jo Talbot of the Royal Life Saving Society UK highlighted summer as a high-risk period.

The event focused on prevention through education and public engagement.

Participants encouraged practice of the floating technique in supervised settings.

World Drowning Prevention Day is observed on 25 July.

The campaign is aimed at reducing water-related fatalities across the UK.

Water safety awareness heightened in the UK with Drowning Prevention Week

by Featured NewsSafety

Drowning Prevention Week launches nationwide campaign

“Stop and think about your relationship with water”

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, in partnership with the Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK), is urging people to stay safe and be mindful of water dangers during Drowning Prevention Week.

As reported by Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue, the summer months see an increase in people exploring waterways and enjoying lighter nights.

From 15th to 22nd June 2024, RLSS UK will conduct its nationwide water safety campaign, Drowning Prevention Week, for the tenth year.

The campaign aims to provide lifesaving knowledge, ensuring people enjoy the water safely.

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service will collaborate with partners to relay important safety messages, including the RLSS Water Safety Code: Stop and Think, Stay Together, Call 999, and Float.

Importance of water safety highlighted by experts

Tommy Richardson, TWFRS Water Safety Lead, emphasized the importance of water safety: “Drowning Prevention Week is an opportunity for everyone to stop and think about their relationship with water.

“Most days, it will be our friend, but in some extreme situations, it becomes our foe.”

He further highlighted the dangers of cold water shock: “The average water temperature here in the North East is approximately 10 to 13 degrees all year round, which means people will quickly feel the effects of cold water shock on their bodies.

“We strongly advise that people swim on a lifeguarded beach, between the red and yellow flags, or indoors at a lifeguard-attended swimming pool.”

RLSS UK aims to equip families with safety skills

Matt Croxall, Charity Director at RLSS UK, stressed the importance of water safety knowledge: “With the warmer summer days on the horizon, we will inevitably see people flock to open water sites across the UK and Ireland, as well as taking opportunities to enjoy the water at home in the garden.

“We want to ensure that everyone can enjoy water this summer and beyond by having the knowledge to do so safely.”

He added that RLSS UK works to provide families with the skills and knowledge needed to stay safe in and around water.

Emergency services and local councils support the campaign

Alun Ross, HART and resilience manager from North East Ambulance Service, noted the increase in water-related incidents during warmer weather: “Unfortunately, as the weather gets warmer we can receive more calls to young people and adults who have found themselves in trouble or unwell in open bodies of water.

“This makes our call for more water safety awareness and vigilance around this time of year even more important for Drowning Prevention Week.”

Danny Hogg, Operations Manager at North Tyneside Council, highlighted the council’s efforts: “As we enter the summer season, it’s vital that everyone takes extra care to stay safe, especially around water.

“We are dedicating additional resources this summer to ensure people can enjoy themselves safely and responsibly at the coast.”

He emphasized the importance of awareness and precaution: “While water activities can be enjoyable, it’s important to be aware of the risks and take necessary precautions.

“Our teams are working closely with our partners to provide a safe environment for all.

“Let’s make safety a priority so everyone can have a fun and incident-free summer.”

Campaign “Be Water Aware” launched to address accidental drownings

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsSafety

Overview of the Be Water Aware campaign

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has launched the “Be Water Aware” campaign running from the 22nd to the 28th of April.

The initiative aims to increase public awareness about the risks of accidental drowning and to provide safety advice.

This is especially critical as the warmer months approach, a period which historically sees an increase in drowning incidents.

According to data from the Water Incident Database for 2022, around 40% of those who drowned had not planned to enter the water, with many incidents resulting from slips, trips, and falls.

Statistics and reasons for drowning

The campaign highlights the dangers associated with water-related activities such as swimming and jumping into water bodies, which are often underestimated, particularly by individuals with limited experience in outdoor swimming.

Factors such as unseen hazards and cold water shock contribute to the difficulty even strong swimmers may face in such environments.

The campaign also disseminates potentially life-saving advice, including the “Float to Live” strategy, for those finding themselves in trouble in the water.

IFSJ Comment

The “Be Water Aware” campaign is a crucial initiative by the NFCC to mitigate the risks associated with water-related activities as we approach the warmer months.

By combining educational efforts with heartfelt personal stories, the campaign seeks to foster a greater understanding of water safety, potentially saving lives.

It is imperative for community members, especially parents and guardians, to engage in open dialogues about water safety to prevent such tragedies in the future.

Scotland conducts Drowning and Incident Review

by Featured NewsSafety

In order to help reduce accidental drownings, the Drowning and Incident Review (DIR) has been created for Scotland in a bid to understand the context and circumstances that lead to an incident.

This review is one of the world’s first and was created by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) and the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), in partnership with Water Safety Scotland (WSS).

On average, 96 people lose their lives due to a water-related fatality each year in Scotland. Scotland’s Drowning Prevention Strategy aims to reduce accidental drowning deaths by 50 per cent by 2026, and in particular lessen the risk among the highest-risk populations, groups and communities.

DIR is a voluntary process that aims to ensure a comprehensive review of each suspected accidental water-related fatality. Its principal aim is to gather all relevant data and information in order to systematically review each incident with a view to prevent a future occurrence. 

The review will provide insight into water-based risks by local area, ensuring that those best placed to mitigate these risks are involved in the process and kept informed. The data capture is anticipated to lead to the development of better-informed national strategies to tackle the issue of drowning prevention.

DIR is still within its pilot phase, but recently the research evaluation has been published in BMJ Injury Prevention and was undertaken by Carlene McAvoy (RoSPA), Dr Jagnoor Jagnoor (George Institute for Global Health) and Dr Connie Hoe (John Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health/Heidelberg University).

Some of the initial findings include ensuring improved guidance for those involved in the DIR process, resourcing for future sustainability, robust processes for organisational involvement and the crucial need for political and legal support. SFRS and RoSPA are working to address these findings ahead of the anticipated DIR release date of Spring 2023.

Carlene McAvoy, Leisure Safety Manager of RoSPA and founder and secretariat of Water Safety Scotland said: “The DIR process that we have created for Scotland is one of the first of its type in the world. The findings from the study have provided us with really useful insight into the views and perspectives of key partners. There are clear points for learning from the research and we will take these on board in order to ensure that DIR works for our partners as well as for its future sustainability. 

“The research also highlighted that DIR will address some vital gaps in drowning prevention efforts, in a consistent and standardised way. The hope is that DIR will be a tool that can be used by water safety partners in Scotland, to enable them to learn from incidents and mitigate the risk of future incidents. This supports our overarching aim to reduce accidental drownings by 50 per cent by 2026.”

James Sullivan, Watch Commander, SFRS National Water Safety Group, added: “DIR aims to provide a clear and consistent post incident process that is vital for gaining an understanding of the events and contributory factors that led to a person entering the water.

This information will allow water safety partners to take meaningful measures that may reduce the likelihood of a similar event occurring and will also assist in national drowning prevention efforts.

This research was vital to ensure that our partners had the opportunity to shape the process that can now be used to improve water safety in Scotland.”

DIR aims to release Spring 2023.