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Hello everyone, Following the tragic loss of five teenagers in UK open water over the last few days- We are appealing to parents, carers and guardians to speak to young people about the dangers of open water, no matter how confident a swimmer someone may be. The dangers of open water - Water may look safe, but it can be dangerous. Learn to spot and keep away from dangers. You may swim well in a warm indoor pool, but that does not mean that you will be able to swim in cold water. The dangers of water include: 🧊 Very cold temperatures
🧊 Hidden Currents
🧊 Fast flowing water, beware of locks and weirs
🧊 Deep water, it can be difficult to estimate the depth
🧊 There may be hidden rubbish or debris under the surface that can trap, snag or cut
🧊 It can be difficult to get out, banks can be steep, slimy and crumble away
🧊 No lifeguards, most outdoors waterways do not have lifeguards
🧊 Water pollution may make you ill
🧊 FLOAT to live
🧊 Even in warm weather, open water in the UK remains cold enough to cause Cold Water Shock. This will affect even a strong swimmer's ability to control their breathing and swim effectively. To help minimise the effects of cold water shock: 🧊 Fight your instinct to panic or swim hard.
🧊 Lean back in the water to keep your airway clear.
🧊 Open your body up, extending your arms and legs, pushing your stomach up.
🧊 Actions- gently move your hands and feet to help you float.
🧊 Time- in 60 – 90 seconds you’ll be able to control your breathing. Safety advice - Where possible you should swim at a swimming pool or beach where a lifeguard is present. When this is not possible look out for special flags, on beaches, and notices, on inland waterways, which will tell you what to do. You can find a guide on these signs and flags below. Go Together
🧊 Never go swimming, fishing or boating alone.
🧊 Children should always go with an adult, not by themselves. An adult can point out dangers or help if somebody gets into trouble. Learn How To Help
🧊 If you see someone in difficulty, tell somebody. This might be a lifeguard if there is one nearby.
🧊 Call 999 immediately. If you are at the beach ask for the coastguard, otherwise ask for the Fire service.
🧊 Never jump into the water yourself – often the rescuer becomes the casualty.
🧊 If you are in a remote area, using an app such as What3words will give emergency services an exact location.
🧊 Tell the casualty to remain calm and FLOAT on their back.
🧊 Without putting yourself in danger, lay down at the water's edge and reach with an object, such as a stick, coat or jumper.
🧊 If there is a lockable throwline box, call 999 and the fire service will give the code to access the throwline. | 
