RoSPA Press Office : Press Release

May 8, 2008
ADVICE TO PREVENT DROWNINGS AS WARM WEATHER ARRIVES

Think carefully before cooling off in rivers and lakes is the message from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents as the UK enjoys its first hot spell of the year.

In previous years, an increase in the number of accidental drownings has been seen during periods of warm weather. To prevent similar tragedies this year, the advice is for people to consider the risks before plunging into the water.

Peter Cornall, Head of Leisure Safety at RoSPA, said: “This is the first spell of really warm weather that we have had this year and people are rightly wanting to make the most of it by getting out and about this weekend.

“Experience from previous years has shown that we sadly see an increase in accidental drownings at times like this, and we have already heard of the drowning of a 12-year-old boy this week.

“Our advice is that it is best to swim at properly supervised sites, such as beaches, lidos or swimming pools, but we understand that not everywhere has a lifeguard, particularly inland water sites.

“There are a number of things to consider if you are thinking about swimming outside this weekend. Because this is the first period of warm weather, remember the water will not have had a chance to heat up and it might be colder than you are expecting when you plunge in. There might also be hazards such as strong currents or rocks and other debris beneath the surface.

“Think honestly about your swimming ability and remember that alcohol and swimming do not mix.

“And, particularly if you are taking children to an unsupervised location to swim, you should have the skills to assess the many water hazards and know what to do if anyone gets into difficulty.”

The latest figures show that 196 people drowned accidentally at inland water sites – such as rivers, lakes and canals – in the UK in 2005. Fifteen of these casualties were under the age of 15. At the coast, 80 people drowned accidentally in 2005.

Follow the Water Safety Code and share it with children:
- Spot the dangers - water may look safe, but it can be dangerous. Learn to spot and keep away from dangers.
- Take safety advice - special flags and notices may warn you of danger. Know what the signs mean and do what they tell you.
- Don’t go 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 - you may be able to help yourself and others if you know what to do in an emergency.

See www.rospa.com/waterandleisuresafety/ for more water safety advice.