Firefighters promote water safety

Firefighters across Cheshire are going to be out and about warning parents and children about the dangers of water as part of Drowning Prevention and Water Safety Week (13 – 19th April).

Sadly the number of drownings start to rise in April, often peaking in July and August, which is why Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service is supporting the Chief Fire Officers Association's national campaign to educate young people in particular about the dangers of taking an impromptu dip in open water.

Alex Waller, Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service's Head of Service Delivery said: "We want people to enjoy swimming, however we also want people to do it safely. Sadly, each year people die swimming in open water. Firefighters and other emergency services also risk their own safety to rescue people who get into difficulties on our waterways.

"Our advice is to only ever swim outdoors as part of an organised open water swimming club. Don't let a cooling dip be the last thing you ever do. Please follow our advice to stay safe around water."

In 2013 there were 669 water-related fatalities nationally which is two-and-a-half times the number of people that died in a house fire in 2012/13.

Cooling off in rivers, canals, ponds, quarries and lakes may seem great fun but it can have deadly consequences.

Even on a warm day, the temperature of the water in a reservoir, quarry or lake can remain very cold and the shock of the cold water can cause a swimmer's body to shut down, or the onset of cramp which can leave a person unable to continue.

Certain waterways can also have strong undercurrents or underwater debris that can prove fatal. These conditions can affect anyone, even an experienced open water swimmer.

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service would encourage people to follow the following water safety advice:

• Only swim as part of an organised group.
• Never go swimming alone.
• Ensure you stay clear of boats and canoes to avoid accidents.
• Never drink alcohol before swimming.
• Know your limits – the cold can kill.
• Don't ignore the safety signs – it could cost you your life.

Further water safety advice can be found at www.cheshirefire.gov.uk.

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