Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service are encouraging people to take extra care if they are spending time near open water during the hot weather.
Sadly, last weekend 10 people across the UK drowned in open water incidents during the heatwave.
The fire service’s advice is not to swim in rivers, lakes or canals, whatever the weather, as even good swimmers can be caught out by hidden dangers such as fast currents, deep holes, soft mud, weeds or rubbish.
Adding to this, the public are also alerted to the fact that even if it feels warm, open water can still be cold enough to cause cold water shock, which can incapacitate even the most capable of swimmers.
As such, swimming in open water is discouraged unless it is with an organised group.
As half of all people who drown never intended to enter the water, having slipped in while cycling or jogging, for example, extra care should be taken when doing any activity near to the waters’ edge.
If you do get into difficulty in the water, remember to fight your instincts, lean back and float. If you see someone in trouble in the water, dial 999 and ask for the fire service.
If there is a flotation device nearby, throw that to them. If no flotation device is to hand, try throwing something that will float such as a ball for the person in the water to hold on to.
What Not To Do
- Never swim after drinking alcohol
- Avoid walking near water if you have been drinking alcohol
- Don’t dive or jump straight into open water – this can cause potentially fatal cold water shock even on the warmest day
- If you find yourself unexpectedly in the water, don’t panic – extend your arms and legs out and float on your back until the effects of cold water shock pass
- Never enter the water to try to rescue someone – call 999 and ask for the fire and rescue service if inland and the coastguard if you are on the coast
What To Do
- The safest place to swim is in a supervised swimming pool. The water is clean, clear and warm, and there are lifeguards on hand if something goes wrong
- Be aware of the risk of cold-water shock, a physical response by your body when entering cold water, which can affect your breathing, reduce your muscle ability and can even lead to a heart attack
- Warn your children of the risks, and know where they are when they are out playing
- At home, keep small children away from ponds and pools and make sure they are supervised in the bath
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