As part of Drowning Prevention Week (13–20 June), people across the UK and in Lincolnshire are being encouraged to learn lifesaving water safety advice.
Run annually by the Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK), Drowning Prevention Week has spent more than a decade helping children, families, teachers and carers understand how to stay safe around water particularly during the summer months, when the risk of accidents significantly increases.
This year’s campaign comes at an especially important time, following several heartbreaking incidents across the country.
Cold Water Can Be Dangerous – Even For Strong Swimmers
One of the biggest dangers people underestimate is cold water shock.
Water temperatures of 15°C or lower can trigger an involuntary physical response that causes sudden gasping, rapid breathing, panic and a loss of swimming ability — even for experienced swimmers.
Open water can also hide serious risks beneath the surface, including:
- Strong currents
- Sudden drops in depth
- Weeds and underwater plants
- Hidden rubbish and debris
- Poor visibility and entanglement hazards
Because of these risks, emergency services strongly advise against entering open water unless you are in a supervised area with trained lifeguards.
If You Fall Into Water: Remember To FLOAT
If you unexpectedly find yourself struggling in water, the advice is simple:
FLOAT To Live
- Tilt your head back and keep your ears submerged
- Relax and focus on controlling your breathing
- Move your hands and legs gently to help stay afloat
- Don’t panic if your legs sink — everyone floats differently
- Once calm, call for help
If Someone Else Is In Trouble
If you see someone struggling in water:
- Encourage them to FLOAT
- Throw something that floats for them to hold onto
- Call 999 immediately
- Never enter the water yourself unless trained to do so
Find more water saving advice and get involved with the campaign on the Royal Life Saving Society website.