Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service (MFRS) is urging the public to take extra care in and around water ahead of warmer weather. The call comes as part of the National Fire Chiefs Council’s (NFCC) annual Be Water Aware campaign.

Running from Monday 27 April to Sunday 3 May, the campaign highlights the ongoing and preventable risk of accidental drowning.

Figures show that between 2019 and 2024, 1,602 people in the UK lost their lives in accidental drowning incidents. 56% (901) occurred in inland waters such as rivers, lakes and reservoirs. Alarmingly, half of people of who drown had no intention of entering the water, with slips, trips and falls identified as a leading cause.

The data also shows that 82% of accidental drowning fatalities were men, emphasising the need for greater awareness among those most at risk. The message is clear: water safety starts on land, and simple choices near water can save lives.

The campaign also warns against the dangers of cooling off in open water. 

Many people, particularly those unfamiliar with outdoor swimming, may underestimate hidden risks. Submerged hazards and consistently low water temperatures mean that cold water shock remains a real danger, even on hot days. 

This can trigger an involuntary gasp, rapid breathing, panic, and a sudden loss of swimming ability, drastically increasing the risk of drowning.

Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service Group Manager for Community Safety, Ged Knock said: 

“MFRS is committed to reducing the number of accidental deaths in and around water in Merseyside. 

“Be Water Aware holds particular significance for us as a Fire and Rescue Service with the River Mersey and other popular inland water spots across the region that can pose a risk.

“As part of Be Water Aware Week 2026, we are supporting local schools and engaging with young people, to deliver water safety advice and equip pupils with lifesaving skills. 

“In addition, on Sunday 3 May, all our operational crews will be out across Merseyside, engaging with our communities at some of our region’s most popular water destinations.

“Here they will be engaging with members of the public to demonstrate lifesaving skills, educate and inform of the effects that cold-water shock can have and the dangers of entering the water in an effort to prevent future accidental water deaths.”

Gavin Ellis, NFCC Drowning Prevention lead said: 

“Most people would be shocked to hear the number of lives lost simply because people were spending time in and around water. These deaths are preventable, so we ask everyone to Be Water Aware.

“NFCC works closely with fire services and partners to encourage people to be safe around water and to highlight the risk of accidental drowning. As the weather improves, fire services across the country, alongside colleagues in HM Coastguard and the RNLI, can face huge numbers of calls to help people in trouble in water. By raising awareness now, we hope to reduce the number of incidents, injuries, and fatalities as we move into the summer months.”