Water and Wild Fire Campaign Launched

Throughout May, June and July and August we are running a campaign that focuses on water and wildfire safety advice.

Now the weather is warming up we all want to make the most of the great outdoors whether that’s a trip to one of our National Parks, meeting friends outside or visiting lakes, rivers or the coast.

We know that on warmer days open water can look tempting, but it is full of hidden dangers so always respect the water. Hidden objects, vegetation and the coldness of the water can all impact your ability to swim safely back to shore. You should also take care if you’re going out for drinks; plan a route home that doesn’t involve passing near open water, look out for your friends and don’t encourage anyone to jump into rivers/water on a night out:

Our water safety advice is:

• Never swim alone in case you need help. Always respect the water
• Take care if you walk or run near open water, especially if it’s been raining as this can make bank sides extra slippery.
• Don’t drink alcohol if you’re planning any water related activities. Alcohol impairs judgement and your ability to swim
• Don’t dive or jump straight into open water, this can cause potentially fatal cold-water shock even on the warmest day
• Supervise children in and around water -drowning can happen fast and silently
• If you find yourself unexpectedly in the water, don’t panic, extend your arms and legs out and float on your back until the effects of cold water shock pass. Find out more on the RNLI website https://rnli.org/safety/respect-the-water
• Avoid walking home close to water if you’ve been out for drinks
• If you see someone in trouble in the water, don’t enter the water yourself, call 999 and ask for the fire service if inland and the Coastguard if you are at the coast. Look around and see if there’s any rescue equipment near-by that you can throw to the person.
• Before entering any water know where the nearest safety equipment is located. Many areas now have safety equipment nearby in case of emergencies.
• Always look for information notices near open water, that advises you of potential hazards

If you’re planning a trip to the countryside always follow the countryside code. Make sure you stick to paths, leave gates and property as you find them, take your litter home especially glass bottles/jar which can cause fires, dispose of smoking materials carefully  and never have campfires or barbecues on dry grass land. Please also park responsibly and make sure a fire engine or ambulance would be able to pass. If you spot a fire in the countryside always dial 999 and ask for the fire service.

If you’re staying closer to home and having a barbecue in the garden make sure you keep it away from hedges, fences, sheds and anything else that can catch fire. Wait until the embers are fully cold before placing them in a bin.

Have a safe summer!

#RespectTheWater #BeMoorAware