Water Safety around lakes, rivers and the beach

With the good weather approaching and free time over the summer break, students often spend more time outside and perhaps near open water.

Every year several young people drown in water incidents across the UK The highest risk group is aged 15 to 24 In 2020 nationally, 47 young people aged 15 to 24 lost their lives in a water incident In a number of cases, young people did not have the knowledge and understanding of cold water shock and the hidden dangers below the surface. Surrey Fire and Rescue Water Safety provides more information.

Here are some tips to help children and young people stay safe in and around water:

• Avoid swimming alone
• Be aware of cold water shock
• Try to swim at a designated area or a beach where there is lifeguard support
• Make sure you understand and obey any safety warnings
• Tell someone where you are going and when you will be back
• Do not go swimming whilst under the influence of drugs and alcohol
• If you get into trouble, stay calm, float on your back and call for help
• Keep in touch – take some means of communication with you, like a mobile phone