Water safety experts from Surrey Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) are gearing up to raise awareness about the risks associated with open water and accidental drowning as part of the upcoming Be Water Aware campaign. Scheduled to run from April 22 to 28, 2024, the initiative aims to educate the public on water safety measures and what to do in case of emergencies.

Gary Bryant, SFRS’s Water Rescue Lead and Station Commander, emphasised the importance of understanding the dangers posed by Surrey’s waters, especially during the warmer months. He noted that even strong swimmers may encounter difficulties due to hidden hazards beneath the surface or the risk of cold-water shock.

Key Statistics

Statistics from the Water Incident Database highlight concerning trends. Between 2022 and 2023, 40% of accidental drowning victims had no intention of entering the water. Accidents often result from slips, trips, and falls. Additionally, males aged 20-29 and 50-59 represented the highest demographic for accidental water fatalities.

Water Safety Tips

As part of the campaign, SFRS will share essential water safety tips, including what to do if one finds themselves struggling in the water:

• Tilt your head back with ears submerged
• Relax and breathe normally
• Use your hands to help you float
• Spread your arms and legs
• Once your breathing is controlled, call for help or swim to safety

SFRS advocates the “Call, Tell, Throw” approach when assisting others in distress:

• Call 999 in emergencies
• Encourage the individual to float on their back
• Throw a flotation device

Water Safety Event

To further promote water safety awareness, SFRS will host a Water Safety Event on April 28th from 11 am to 2 pm at Virginia Water (GU254QF). The event, open to all ages, will offer practical guidance on managing water-related emergencies and feature live demonstrations in the water.

SFRS encourages community members to attend the event and learn valuable skills to stay safe around water.

For more information about the campaign and event, visit the Surrey Fire and Rescue Service website or contact the department directly.