Stay Safe This Summer: Vital Water Safety Campaign

As the days get warmer and outdoor activities become more appealing, the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) is spearheading the Be Water Aware campaign from 22nd to 28th April.

This campaign is crucial in educating the public about the risks of accidental drowning and offering essential safety advice to prevent such tragedies.

Campaign Goals

The Be Water Aware week aims to increase public awareness about the dangers of drowning, particularly as the warmer months, which see a rise in water-related activities, approach. Shockingly, statistics from the Water Incident Database for 2022 reveal that approximately 40% of those who drowned had no intention of entering the water. Slips, trips, and falls are often to blame for these unforeseen accidents.

Underestimating Water Dangers

Many incidents occur when individuals underestimate the dangers associated with water, such as jumping in or swimming to cool off. This is especially true for those with limited experience in outdoor swimming. Hidden underwater hazards and the impact of cold water shock are significant risks, even for strong swimmers, which can lead to distressing and dangerous situations.

Life-Saving Advice

The NFCC campaign provides crucial Float to Live advice, offering guidance on what to do if you find yourself unexpectedly in trouble in the water. This advice could be life-saving in critical moments and is part of the broader effort to reduce preventable deaths caused by drowning.

Supporting Resources

For those interested in supporting or promoting the campaign, resources and a toolkit are available to enhance understanding and spread crucial messages. More information can also be found on the Respect the Water website, reinforcing the campaign’s messages.

Strategic Alignment

The Be Water Aware campaign is a part of ongoing efforts by the NFCC to support the UK National Drowning Prevention Strategy and collaborate with other member organisations of the National Water Safety Forum. By aligning messages and supporting a calendar of targeted campaigns, the NFCC aims to significantly reduce the number of accidental drownings across the UK.

In conclusion, as we approach the summer, the Be Water Aware campaign reminds us of the unexpected risks associated with water activities. Taking the time to learn and share essential safety advice could make a significant difference in preventing drowning incidents.