Think before you swim say Environment Agency
1 July 2009
With a heatwave in full swing and school holidays fast approaching, members of the public are being advised to take extra care along their local river.
The Environment Agency is urging people to ‘think before they swim'. Jumping or diving into rivers can be dangerous and potentially life threatening. Youngsters planning to go fishing, cycle or simply hang out with friends down by their local river during the hot weather and over the summer holidays should be aware of the dangers posed by jumping off bridges, fast-currents, weirs and locks, cold water, and unstable riverbanks.
Local rivers are a great source of recreation and fun, but people using the river should also be aware that discarded items hidden underwater are just some of the dangers bridge jumpers and swimmers face. Items including metal spikes, broken glass, shopping trolleys have previously been discovered on the river bed, and being struck by a boat, caught in a propeller or swept along in a strong current are other possible risks to an unprepared swimmer.
Russell Robson, principal recreation officer for the Environment Agency Thames Region said: "We want people to enjoy being on or near their local river but they need to stay safe. Every year, especially during periods of hot weather, there are reports of people getting into difficulties and children jumping from bridges. Not considering the risks can end in accidents and in some cases, death - it's just not worth it.
"One of the best ways to get close to the water is on a boat and there are canoe, sailing and rowing clubs along most river stretches who are happy to welcome new members."
Environment Agency 10 top tips for staying safe around water
- Don't jump or dive in as the depth may vary and there can be unseen dangerous things such as shallow water, broken glass or other sharp objects.
- Don't go in near weirs, locks, pipes and sluices. These and some other water features are often linked with strong currents - these dangers can often be beyond the ability of even good swimmers to cope with safely.
- Take notice of any safety information, warning signs or flags. Know what the signs mean and do as they advise.
- Realise that inland waters can be very cold no matter how warm the weather. Those going into cold water can get cramp and develop breathing difficulties.
- Think about the hazards near the waters edge. Banks can be unstable and suddenly collapse. Closely supervise young children when near any water.
- Use appropriate safety equipment for your activity - this could include a life jacket or buoyancy aid and other safety wear such as a helmet.
- Consider the dangers of using airbeds, inner tubes and other floatation devices. They can be easily carried away by currents or blown by the wind into deep water and may not keep you afloat.
- Consuming alcohol may severely impair your ability and judgment when on or in water. If you have been drinking think twice about your safety and of those you may put at risk in trying to rescue you.
- Get trained in life saving and resuscitation techniques and know what to do in an emergency.
- Parents and guardians can help keep children in their care safe by:-
1. teaching them to swim
2. telling them not to go into the water alone or unsupervised
3. ensuring you know where they are and what they are doing
4. supervising them closely when near any open water - Remember drowning can occur very quickly even in shallow water and the key to keeping safe is not to get into difficulty in the first place. Be extra careful when in or near water - your options in an emergency are very limited and you should not rely on safety equipment being present.
What to do if you see someone in difficulties
Get help: ring 999 or get someone else to do it. Alternatively if you are on your own without a mobile phone, call for help if you can see people are nearby, or go and get help.
Think: of your own safety first. Don't put yourself in danger by going into the water to rescue someone - you may get in difficulties in the water too.
Look: for any safety equipment close at hand such as lifebuoys or throwing lines.
Reach: a stick, scarf or clothes tied together can help you reach the person. Crouch or lie down to avoid being pulled into the water yourself, or
Throw: a rope is best because you can then pull the person in. If you don't have any rope, throwing something in that will float, such as a football or even a plastic bottle will assist in keeping the person afloat until help arrives.