Water safety warning issued as hot weather continues across half term

by Breaking NewsHealth and SafetySafety

Fire chiefs urge parents to speak to young people after four teenagers drown over bank holiday weekend

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has issued an urgent water safety warning as hot weather continues across the half term holidays, following four confirmed drownings of teenagers in inland water over the bank holiday weekend.

Fire chiefs said the incidents were a “stark reminder” of the dangers posed by open water, with rivers, lakes, quarries, canals and reservoirs attracting more visitors during periods of warm weather.

The NFCC warned that despite high air temperatures, water in open environments can remain dangerously cold, increasing the risk of cold water shock, which can affect breathing and movement within seconds.

Emergency services often see a rise in water-related incidents during warmer weather, with officials warning that many people underestimate the dangers of open water. Hidden currents, submerged objects and sudden drops can pose serious risks, even for strong swimmers used to pools rather than open water conditions.

Research released by Bournemouth University in 2024 found that when UK average maximum air temperatures reach or exceed 25°C, the risk of accidental drowning increases fivefold compared to days averaging 10°C. The analysis also showed three times as many accidental drowning fatalities occur on days where temperatures reach 25°C or higher compared with the seasonal average.

Gavin Ellis, NFCC drowning prevention lead, said: “No family should have to experience the devastation of losing a loved one in the water. We know that warm weather encourages people to visit rivers, lakes and reservoirs, but these places can be extremely dangerous.

“Cold water shock can affect anyone, no matter how confident they feel in the water. Jumping into open water can cause an involuntary gasp response, panic and loss of swimming ability almost immediately, which is why we urge people not to swim in unsupervised locations during this hot weather.

“We’re asking parents and carers to have open conversations with children and teenagers about the risks, and for young people to look after each other and make safe decisions around water. These incidents can happen very quickly, but many are preventable.”

The NFCC is urging families to follow water safety advice during the warm weather, including swimming only in supervised locations, avoiding jumping into water to cool off and never entering the water to attempt a rescue.

People spending time near water are also encouraged to install location apps such as what3words to help emergency services identify their location quickly in the event of an incident.

Fire chiefs are also reminding the public of the “Phone, Float, Throw” advice if they see someone in trouble in the water:

  • Phone 999 immediately.
  • Encourage the person to float on their back.
  • Throw them something that floats.

The NFCC is also promoting the “Float to Live” guidance for anyone who gets into difficulty in the water, advising people to tilt their head back with ears submerged, relax to control breathing, move their hands to stay afloat and call for help or swim to safety once the initial shock passes.

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.

NFCC urges legal reform on inland water rescue responsibilities

by Associations and OrganisationsSafetySearch and Rescue

NFCC highlights national action needed on water safety

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has stated that national-level action is required to reduce accidental drownings across the UK.

According to the NFCC, the absence of a statutory responsibility for inland water rescue in England limits how fire and rescue services can respond to and prevent these incidents.

The NFCC made this call during its Be Water Aware campaign week, which coincides with early May temperatures reaching record highs in parts of the UK.

Be Water Aware campaign urges political commitment

The NFCC said that 1,409 people died in accidental drownings between 2019 and 2023, based on data from the Water Incident Database.

It reported that 57% of those deaths occurred in inland waterways such as rivers, canals and lakes.

Chris Kirby, NFCC Water Safety Lead, said: “Be Water Aware week is aimed at reducing drownings across the UK.

“Along with increasing public awareness around the risk of accidental drowning and spreading the word about how we can all keep ourselves safe, this year we are really seeking political buy in.

“1,400 people have died in accidental drowning incidents across just five years. We need urgent action to prevent anybody else coming to harm and that requires steps being taken at a national level.”

Kirby added: “We are working closely with partners in the National Water Safety Forum to do whatever possible to reduce the risk, but we would like to see an increased political effort to drive down numbers.

“This also means consulting on giving fire and rescue services in England enhanced legal duties to respond to inland water incidents so that we can be better equipped and prepared to deal with those emergencies when they happen.”

Lack of statutory duty and funding in England

The NFCC stated that, unlike in Wales, fire and rescue services in England are not legally required to respond to inland water incidents.

It said this can result in inconsistent resourcing, equipment and training across the UK.

The NFCC noted that Scotland and Northern Ireland have some statutory duties linked to flooding response, while England does not have a comparable legal obligation for water rescue.

It added that there is currently no sustained funding stream for fire and rescue services to support water rescue and prevention work.

The NFCC said that creating a legal basis for these responsibilities would improve the ability of services to plan and fund such activities.

NFCC calls for a lead UK department on water safety

The NFCC and the National Water Safety Forum have both called on the UK Government to appoint a Minister responsible for water safety.

They said that the lack of a clear policy lead at the national level is hampering coordination, accountability and development of water safety strategies.

The NFCC stated that devolved governments in Wales and Scotland already have Ministers with this responsibility, enabling better oversight of drowning prevention.

It also endorsed recommendations made in the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents’ Safer Lives, Stronger Nation report for the UK Government to adopt a national accident prevention strategy.

Climate change increasing water safety risks

The NFCC warned that climate change is making water safety risks more severe.

It said that extreme weather events are contributing to both wetter winters and hotter summers, which could result in more people exposed to dangerous water conditions.

The organisation said this makes the case stronger for giving English fire and rescue services a legal role in water safety and response.

It also highlighted that the UK Drowning Prevention Strategy 2016–2026 is nearing its end and said a new strategy will be developed.

It said a designated Minister could play a key role in improving national coordination of that work.

NFCC urges legal reform on inland water rescue responsibilities: Summary

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has called for national-level action on water safety in the UK.

It made the call during its Be Water Aware campaign week.

The NFCC wants the UK Government to introduce a statutory duty for fire and rescue services in England to carry out inland water rescue and prevention.

It said that 1,409 people died from accidental drownings between 2019 and 2023.

It stated that 57% of these deaths occurred in inland waterways.

NFCC Water Safety Lead Chris Kirby said legal change is needed to improve emergency response.

The NFCC also wants a UK Minister to take responsibility for water safety prevention.

It said a lack of statutory duty in England leads to inconsistent training, equipment and standards.

It reported that Wales has a statutory duty and Scotland and Northern Ireland have legal duties linked to flooding.

The NFCC noted there is no continuous funding for water safety activities.

It said climate change is increasing the likelihood of dangerous water-related incidents.

The NFCC supports the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents’ call for a national accident prevention strategy.

Be Water Aware: UK fire services highlight water safety risks as temperatures rise

by Featured NewsSafety

NFCC launches Be Water Aware campaign to prevent drownings

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has launched its annual Be Water Aware campaign to raise awareness about water safety across the United Kingdom, according to the NFCC.

The campaign runs from 28 April to 4 May 2025 and aims to reduce the number of accidental drownings as temperatures rise, the NFCC said.

The NFCC stated that according to the latest data from the National Water Safety Forum’s Water Incident Database, 273 people in the UK lost their lives to accidental drowning in 2023.

The NFCC explained that around 40 per cent of these individuals had no intention of entering the water, with slips, trips and falls cited as common causes.

Chris Kirby, Water Safety and Drowning Prevention Lead at the NFCC, said: “Many people don’t realise how easily everyday situations, like walking near a riverbank, or trying to cool off on a warm day – can end in tragedy.”

Chris Kirby added: “Our message is simple: We encourage people to reduce their risk of drowning by making safe choices around water and to know what to do if an emergency should happen.”

London Fire Brigade warns of increase in water-related incidents

The London Fire Brigade has reported a rise in water-related incidents ahead of the May bank holiday, coinciding with the NFCC’s Be Water Aware campaign.

According to the London Fire Brigade, its crews responded to 565 water-related incidents in 2024 and have already attended around 160 such incidents in the first quarter of 2025.

The Brigade said that its fireboats have been deployed to more than 70 incidents so far in 2025.

The London Fire Brigade reported that the number of incidents in March 2025 alone increased by more than 32 per cent compared to the same period in 2024.

Assistant Commissioner for Prevention and Protection at London Fire Brigade, Craig Carter, said: “Whether you’re walking by the river, spending time by canals, or taking part in water-based activities, it’s important to be aware of the risks and take simple precautions to stay safe around London’s waterways.”

Craig Carter added: “Even when the sun is shining, water temperatures can be dangerously cold. Cold water shock can affect anyone, no matter how fit or experienced they are. It can lead to water inhalation, and, in the worst cases, drowning.”

Craig Carter further stated: “Be particularly careful near the water’s edge, it’s easy to slip and fall unexpectedly. And think twice before jumping into open water. While designated swimming locations have lifeguards and safety measures in place, open water environments pose unpredictable risks.”

Public urged to follow simple water safety advice

The NFCC is encouraging the public to follow basic safety measures to prevent accidents near water, it said.

The NFCC advises people to stick to proper pathways, stay clear of water edges, avoid entering the water after drinking alcohol, and walk home safely with friends away from waterways.

The NFCC also advises that if someone gets into difficulty in water, bystanders should remember the Call, Tell, Throw approach: call 999, tell the person to float on their back, and throw them something that floats.

The NFCC recommends that individuals who find themselves in trouble should remember the Float to Live technique, involving tilting the head back with ears submerged, relaxing to control breathing, moving the hands and feet to stay afloat, and spreading the arms and legs.

Craig Carter at the London Fire Brigade added: “If you do find yourself struggling, follow the RNLI’s ‘Float to Live’ advice: tilt your head back with your ears submerged, relax and try to control your breathing, use your hands and feet to help you stay afloat.”

Craig Carter further stated: “If you see someone in trouble in the water, never jump in after them. Instead, call 999, tell the person in the water to float on their back and throw them something that floats.”

Water safety measures in place across London’s waterways

The London Fire Brigade reported that it has worked with partners to implement water safety measures across the city’s waterways.

According to the London Fire Brigade, throwlines have been installed at various locations, allowing quicker rescues by members of the public while emergency services respond.

The Brigade explained that users can access the throwlines by calling 999, quoting the What3Words code at the location, and receiving a unique lock code from Control Officers.

Control Officers will then guide users through deploying the throwline while dispatching water rescue teams, the London Fire Brigade said.

Deputy Mayor for the Fire Service, Jules Pipe, said: “London’s rivers, lakes and waterways can look very appealing when the temperatures rise, however, there can also be hidden dangers. The Mayor is working to improve the capital’s waterways for everyone to enjoy, and has been clear that it’s vital that people only do so where it is safe and supervised.”

Jules Pipe added: “I urge everyone to heed London Fire Brigade’s advice to stay safe in and around our waterways.”

UK fire services highlight water safety risks as temperatures rise: Summary

The National Fire Chiefs Council has launched the Be Water Aware campaign across the United Kingdom from 28 April to 4 May 2025.

According to the NFCC, 273 people died from accidental drowning in 2023.

The NFCC stated that around 40 per cent of those had no intention of entering the water.

Chris Kirby of the NFCC encouraged safe choices and awareness around water.

The London Fire Brigade has reported an increase in water-related incidents in the first quarter of 2025.

The London Fire Brigade noted that fireboats were deployed to over 70 incidents so far this year.

The Brigade also highlighted a 32 per cent rise in incidents in March compared to the same period in 2024.

Assistant Commissioner Craig Carter urged Londoners to exercise caution near waterways.

Jules Pipe, Deputy Mayor for the Fire Service, emphasised the importance of only using safe, supervised water areas.

The London Fire Brigade explained that throwlines are now available at various locations to assist in emergencies.

Control Officers provide access to throwlines by giving a lock code after a 999 call and guiding users during rescues.

Joint Code of Practice for managing escape of water on construction sites published

by ConstructionFeatured News

Guidance released for escape of water on construction sites

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has published a new Joint Code of Practice (JCoP) for the prevention and management of escape of water (EoW) on construction sites.

The guide was developed by RISCAuthority and the Construction Insurance Risk Engineers Group (CIREG) and is endorsed by the London Engineering Group (LEG) and the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE).

As reported by the FPA, this first edition targets both permanent and temporary water systems within buildings.

The document provides a comprehensive approach to mitigating water damage risks on construction sites by addressing the root causes of escape of water.

It aims to reduce the frequency and severity of incidents during pre-construction and construction phases.

The guidance covers various plumbing systems, water storage, and mechanical systems, offering good practice across a range of construction and refurbishment projects.

A focus on risk management and collaboration

The new JCoP is designed to be applied across the supply chain, from designers and specifiers to contractors during construction, emphasising a collaborative, risk-based approach.

RISCAuthority Consultant Adrian Butler explained: “Insurers’ experience shows that the occurrence of water damage is one of the most prevalent causes of claims on construction sites.”

The code also outlines methods to mitigate the impact of water-related incidents and prevent project delays.

Butler further noted that the JCoP provides ways to address the root causes of EoW and manage the effects if incidents occur.

Impact on the construction and plumbing industries

Kevin Wellman, Chief Executive Officer of the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE), highlighted the importance of reducing water leaks: “Millions of litres of water are wasted each day, with significant financial losses incurred due to damage to building fabric and other property.”

Wellman stressed that the new code contains essential information to help reduce and manage these incidents.

The CIPHE’s involvement in the development of the JCoP ensures that it addresses the technical challenges of plumbing installations.

It also reinforces the need for competent workers in preventing water escape issues, particularly in new build properties.

Insights from the insurance risk sector

The construction insurance sector also played a key role in creating the JCoP.

Olly Wright of CIREG stated: “This new Joint Code of Practice expands on, and is intended to replace, the CIREG 5th Edition.”

He highlighted the renewed focus on preventing water damage by incorporating technology that detects anomalous flow rates and can automatically isolate pipework outside of working hours.

Wright pointed out that water escape remains a leading cause of insurable loss on construction sites, stressing the importance of this updated guidance in addressing these risks.

Escape of water code of practice now available: Summary

The Fire Protection Association (FPA) has published the first edition of the Joint Code of Practice (JCoP) for Escape of Water Prevention and Management on Construction Sites.

This guide aims to address the risk of water damage across the construction sector and was developed by RISCAuthority and CIREG.

It covers various water systems and is applicable to both pre-construction and construction phases.

The guidance is endorsed by the London Engineering Group and the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering.

It encourages a collaborative, risk-based approach and incorporates modern technology to prevent water-related incidents.

Malaysian children’s fire safety club rebranded to include water safety

by Featured NewsSafety

Children’s fire safety club rebranded to include water safety

As reported by Bernama, the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) has announced the rebranding of the Children’s Fire Safety Club, formerly known as Kelab 3K, to Kelab Bomba Cilik (KBOC).

The rebranding aims to broaden the scope of the programme to include water safety in addition to fire safety.

JBPM director-general, Datuk Nor Hisham Mohammad, said the initiative targets early education institutions, including preschools, nurseries, and kindergartens, to provide essential safety knowledge for children aged five to six.

The curriculum expansion comes in response to concerning statistics from 2020 to 2023, showing an average of 65 fire-related deaths and 53 drowning cases involving children under six years old.

“Kelab 3K focused solely on fire safety awareness. Now, under Kelab Bomba Cilik, the curriculum has been enhanced to include water safety awareness as well,” said Datuk Nor Hisham.

Kelab Bomba Cilik aims to align with national educational standards

Datuk Nor Hisham explained that the rebranding of Kelab Bomba Cilik (KBOC) was part of an effort to standardise the fire brigade’s branding across educational levels.

The programme aligns with other fire safety initiatives such as the Student Aid Fire Brigade, Fire Brigade (higher education), Fire Cadets (secondary school), and Junior Firefighters (primary school).

Kelab Bomba Cilik is now open to all preschools, kindergartens, and nurseries.

As of today, the existing 1,212 Kelab 3K clubs, comprising 34,668 members, will transition to KBOC automatically.

The programme aims to foster safety awareness among children from a young age, addressing both fire and water safety concerns.

Nationwide institutions involved in safety education initiative

During the launch of KBOC at the Hang Tuah Fire and Rescue Station, Datuk Nor Hisham presented plaques and certificates of appreciation to representatives from various preschool agencies, including the Federal Territories Islamic Religious Council and the Ministry of Education.

Other agencies involved include the Selangor Islamic Religious Department, the Department of National Unity and National Integration, the Community Development Department (KEMAS), and the Malaysian Islamic Youth Movement (ABIM).

The collaboration between JBPM and these educational bodies underscores the programme’s commitment to incorporating fire and water safety education into the early learning curriculum.

This initiative is expected to benefit children and educational institutions across Malaysia.

Public urged to remain vigilant of water risks during adverse weather

In addition to the rebranding, Datuk Nor Hisham urged the public to be cautious when visiting water recreational areas, especially during unpredictable weather conditions.

He noted that several water sites in Gombak, Hulu Selangor, Perak, and Sarawak had experienced sudden surges following heavy rainfall.

His reminder comes as part of the broader water safety awareness incorporated into Kelab Bomba Cilik.

The department emphasises the importance of public awareness to prevent future water-related accidents.

Children’s fire safety club rebranded to include water safety: Summary

The Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) has rebranded the Children’s Fire Safety Club from Kelab 3K to Kelab Bomba Cilik (KBOC) to extend its focus to both fire and water safety.

Aimed at children aged five to six in early education settings, KBOC will provide comprehensive safety education.

This change follows concerning data on child fire and drowning deaths.

The initiative, aligned with national education standards, has been launched across preschools, kindergartens, and nurseries, with over 1,200 clubs now transitioning to the new programme.

Water safety campaign starts in Shropshire with yarn bombing

by Featured NewsSafety

Water safety campaign highlights dangers in Shropshire

Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service has initiated a Water Safety Campaign on Monday, 29th July, by ‘yarn bombing’ the county.

As reported by Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service, the campaign is supported by the Newport Knit and Natter group, Castlefield Yarn Bombers, and Liz Brown from Welshpool.

The county will be decorated with colourful knitted items to raise awareness about water safety.

Rising accidental drowning statistics in the UK

In 2023, the UK recorded 236 accidental drownings according to the Water Incident Database.

Statistics reveal that 50% of these incidents involved people who had no intention of entering the water.

Everyday activities such as walking and running accounted for 48% of accidental fatalities, with 63% occurring at inland waters.

Cathryn Williams, Water Safety Officer, emphasised the hidden dangers: “In Shropshire we have beautiful spots to spend time near the water and summer is an amazing time to enjoy our beautiful waterways.

“However, rivers and weirs, canals, quarries and lakes can also be very dangerous.

“The water is cold which can lead to cold water shock, there could be currents or underwater objects.

“Warmer weather is directly linked to an increase in fatal drowning incidents, 46% of drownings occur in summer months and this rises to 75% among 13–17-year-olds.”

Precautions and safety measures

Williams added: “The majority of people in distress in the water had no intention of entering at all, so it is really important to be aware when spending any time near the water.

“The area can be muddy and slippery which can cause people to slip in.

“It can then be difficult to climb back out as the river’s edge can resemble a cliffside.”

She advised families to learn basic water safety and what to do in emergencies: “Make sure your family knows basic water safety and what to do if they find themselves in the water unexpectedly or if they spot someone in trouble: stop and think, stay together, float, call 999 ask for fire service if inland.”

Safety tips and emergency actions

The campaign promotes several safety tips:

  • Stop and think – look for signs of danger.
  • Do not get too close to the water’s edge.
  • Stay together: Don’t walk alone.
  • Don’t walk by the water while intoxicated.

In case of accidental immersion, remember to float:

  • Tilt your head back.
  • Stretch out your arms and legs.
  • Move your hands.
  • Try to relax and stay calm.
  • Shout for help.

For assisting someone in distress:

  • Call 999 and ask for the Fire Service if inland.
  • Look for a throwline, life ring, or something that floats like a football.

For more information on water safety, visit Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service.

World drowning prevention day highlights water safety tips

by Breaking NewsSafety
Image credit: TWFRS

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service promotes water safety

Today, Thursday 25th July, is World Drowning Prevention Day (WDPD), organised by the World Health Organization (WHO).

As reported by Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, mimicking a starfish can help individuals stay afloat in distressing water situations.

To mark this day, Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, along with regional organisations, highlighted the dangers of water and demonstrated safety techniques.

Floating like a starfish helps individuals remain calm and buys essential time until rescuers arrive.

Statistics and campaign themes

Statistics from the World Health Organization reveal that nearly a quarter of a million people drown each year, with around 82,000 of them being children aged between 1 and 14 years.

Tommy Richardson, TWFRS Water Safety Lead, stated: “For any parent or family member, the issue of drowning is heart-wrenching, as a large majority of the time the source of the accident or incident is preventable.”

This year’s campaign theme is: “Anyone can drown, no one should” and “Seconds can save life.”

Richardson emphasised: “We wanted to mark the occasion by showing just how powerful remembering to float like a starfish in a crisis can save valuable seconds and essentially save your life.”

Essential water safety tips

Richardson further urged the public: “Please spare a moment this World Drowning Prevention Day to learn the Royal National Lifeboat Institution’s (RNLI) essential water safety advice that could be the defining factor that saves your life or the life of a loved one.”

The six safety tips to help stay safe in the water include:

  1. Be prepared.
  2. Never go alone.
  3. Acclimatise slowly to avoid cold water shock.
  4. Always be seen.
  5. Stay within your depth.
  6. Float to Live by making a starfish shape in the water.

Upcoming water safety event

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service advises the public to call 999 and ask for the fire service during emergency incidents on land, or call 112 and ask for the coastguard if in difficulty or seeing someone in trouble along the coast.

In conjunction with World Drowning Prevention Day, TWFRS and its partners have organised a free water safety event on Newcastle Quayside near the Millennium Bridge on Sunday 28th July from 11 am to 3 pm.

Attendees can tour a fire appliance, watch a water rescue demonstration on the River Tyne by the fireboat team, and discuss water safety with experts.

Hottest day of the year prompts safety warnings from Staffordshire Fire and Rescue

by Featured NewsSafety

Schools breaking up on hottest day of the year

Schools are set to break up for the summer holiday on the hottest day of the year tomorrow, Friday 19 July as temperatures are expected to reach the high 20s.

This coincides with the end of the school term, when children are likely to be excited and looking for ways to cool down.

Ian Read, the lead for prevent and protect at Staffordshire Fire and Rescue, has issued a warning to parents and guardians.

He highlights the potential dangers associated with open water swimming, a popular activity among children during hot weather.

Risks of open water swimming

Ian Read emphasised the risks: “Jumping into open water can cause rapid shock because the water is much colder than people realise.

“This can result in difficulty breathing and an inability to call for help.”

He also noted the dangers of shallow water, which can lead to serious impact injuries, and the presence of sharp objects and pollutants that can cause illness.

He urged: “Having a conversation with a child about the dangers involved in open water swimming can go such a long way.

“Warning them of the dangers while temperatures are high could end up saving their life.”

Advice for emergency situations

Staffordshire Fire and Rescue advises against attempting a rescue if someone falls into open water.

Instead, call 999 immediately and try to find something nearby to throw to the person to help them float.

For those who fall into water accidentally, the “float to live” advice is crucial.

The steps include fighting the instinct to thrash, leaning back and extending arms and legs, and floating until breathing is under control before calling for help or swimming to safety.