SUMMER KIDZ: Water safety this Summer

Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service (DFRS) is calling for people to stay safe and prevent emergencies after the county experienced prolonged hot and dry weather.

DFRS is reminding people of the dangers of open water.

Parents, guardians and carers are being encouraged to speak to children and young people about staying safe while spending time outdoors and to remember the Float to Live message should they get into difficulty.

Group Manager Frith added: “We know that some children will be enjoying an additional day away from school, and with the warm weather continuing, many may be tempted to cool off in rivers, reservoirs, lakes or quarries.

“Open water can be extremely dangerous, even during hot weather. The water is often much colder than it appears, there may be hidden hazards beneath the surface, and strong currents can quickly overwhelm even confident swimmers.

“We would encourage parents and carers to have a conversation with children about the dangers of entering open water and to help them make safe choices while enjoying the sunshine.”

Water Safety

• No matter how warm it is, resist the urge to swim or jump into open water such as quarries, lakes, reservoirs, and rivers.
• Cold water shock can cause muscle cramps and breathing difficulties and quickly lead to drowning.
• Hidden debris and rocks can cause you to get trapped.
• Float to Live – if you do find yourself in difficulty in the water, float to live. If you can’t swim to safety, float on your back with your arms and legs out like a star and shout for help.
• Never enter the water to help someone else in difficulty. Call 999 immediately.

In July 2021, Thando Ndlovu drowned in the River Trent while swimming with friends near Swarkestone Bridge.

DFRS recently worked with the 15-year-old’s parents to produce a video titled ‘Thando’s Story’. The film aims to raise awareness of the dangers of jumping or swimming in any open water, something that may seem enticing during the hot weather, but can have catastrophic consequences.

You can watch ‘Thando’s Story’ here.

For more information about keeping safe outdoors, visit this link.