Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service Urges Caution Around Open Water During Summer Months

Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service (MFRS) is urging the public to stay safe around open water as the weather begins to improve and school holidays loom.

In 2023, 273 people in the UK lost their lives to accidental drowning. Most of these incidents in the United Kingdom (UK) occurred in inland water, such as rivers, canals, lakes, reservoirs, and quarries, which continue to be the leading locations for accidental drowning.

However here in Merseyside we also have the added risk posed by our extensive coastline, with strong currents and fast-moving tides.

Area Manager for Prevention, Mark Thomas said: “We urge everyone to take the time to understand the very real risks that come with open water and to learn what actions to take in an emergency.

“Knowing the hazards associated with open water - and how to respond if you or someone else gets into difficulty - can save lives. We also encourage parents and carers to speak with young people about the importance of water safety and ensure they’re aware of how to stay safe near water.”

 

UNDERSTANDING THE DANGERS OF OPEN WATER:

  • The water is cold – even on very warm days. Sudden immersion can lead to cold water shock, which can cause gasping and intake of water
  • Riverbanks and cliff edges may be unstable and give way, particularly after bad weather
  • Depth can be difficult to estimate and debris under the water such as shopping trolleys, broken glass and cans can cause serious injury and trap you
  • You can get in, but can you get out? People often get into difficulty with steep sides and slimy banks
  • There may be hidden currents
  • Avoid alcohol and drugs when carrying out activities in our near water
  • Going to the beach? We advise you to go to a beach with a lifeguard. Be aware of which flag is flying as this will warn you of any dangers. Red and yellow flags means lifeguards are on patrol

 

IF YOU SEE SOMEONE IN DANGER IN THE WATER:

  • Remember: Call, Tell, Throw
  • CALL - dial 999 and ask for the Fire & Rescue Service if inland or Coastguard if near the coast
  • TELL - Tell them to float on their back
  • THROW - Look for something that floats or that they could hold onto and throw it to them.
  • If there is a life ring it may have a number or what3words location which you should tell the emergency services
  • Do not enter the water yourself – you could also get into difficulty

IF YOU ARE IN DANGER IN THE WATER:

  • Remember: Float to Live
  • Fight your instinct to thrash around – lean back and extend your arms and legs
  • Float until you can control your breathing
  • Only then, call for help, swim to safety or continue floating until help arrives
  • If you fall into the water unexpectedly, or get into difficulty, fight your instinct to thrash around. Instead, lean back, extend your arms and legs and float

 

 

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