Students Reminded To Stay Safe Around Water During The Summer Break
With the summer holiday just around the corner and warm temperatures set to continue, students are being reminded of the dangers of cooling off in open water.
Following the tragic loss of a teenager at Powell’s Pool in Sutton Park earlier this month, West Midlands Fire Service is highlighting the risks of venturing into canals, rivers, lakes and ponds.
Youngsters heading to the seaside with their families are also warned to take extra care.
Although the water may look fine, the temperature below the surface can be significantly lower and cause cold water shock. This can cause gasping for breath and stop muscles working properly, reducing the ability to swim. There can also be hazards, sudden depths and water pollution which may not be visible from the surface.
More than 236 people drowned in the UK last year, with around 83% of these being male.
If you do fall into deep water:
- Float to live – lie on your back and float
- Resist the instinct to panic or swim
- Lie back and keep your airways clear, push your stomach up and extend your limbs, moving hands and feet to help you float.
- Try to take control of the effects of cold water shock, such as the gasping reflex. Once your breathing is controlled call for help and if possible try to make your way to safety.
If someone else falls into deep water:
- Call 999 and ask for the fire service, or coastguard if you are by the seaside. If you don’t have a phone, shout for help but do not enter the water yourself.
- Encourage the person in the water to try to float on their back – and if there’s rescue equipment nearby, throw it to them.
- Never enter the water to try to save someone – you could suffer from cold water shock yourself, which will leave you unable to help even if you’re a strong swimmer.
For more information and advice, visit the West Midlands Fire Service or RNLI websites.
