Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service issues warning...

Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service issues warning

As summer draws near, the Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS) has issued a warning.

As more people are anticipated to spend time near Berkshire’s rivers, lakes, canals, and beaches, the service has

asked people to be “water aware.”

The warning is part of the ‘Be Water Aware’ campaign by the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), which will run

from Monday, April 28 to Sunday, May 4.

The campaign’s goal is to raise awareness of the dangers of open water and the precautions people can take to lessen

the chance of an incident.

Paul Scott, prevention manager at RBFRS, said: “The latest statistics show that 273 people accidentally drowned in

the UK in 2023, with 59 per cent of those people never intending to enter the water.

“Whilst we want people to enjoy themselves in and around the water this summer, we must take this opportunity to

remind people that accidents can happen and we need to know what steps we can all take to avoid them.

“If you find yourself in trouble in water, try not to panic and remember to ‘float to live’.

“Float on your back with your arms and legs spread to help regain control of your breathing.

“Once any cold water shock has passed, which usually takes around 90 seconds, call out for help or try to swim to

safety.”

“Likewise, if you see someone else in trouble, call 999 right away and ask for the coastguard if you’re at the beach or

the fire service if you’re inland,” he continued.

“Give the person a shout out to assist them concentrate on their environment.

“If you are near a life ring or throw bag, please use them!”

Additionally, the fire department cautioned residents from approaching the edges of cliffs and riverbanks because

they could give way and become unstable, especially after inclement weather.

Additionally, they cautioned visitors to exercise extra caution, watch for trip or slip hazards near the water’s edge,

and refrain from sprinting or strolling next to water if the levels are high.

Additionally, the fire department issued a warning about the risks of cold water shock, which may have a severe

impact on the body. It can cause you to breathe in water, weaken your muscles, and even cause your heart to beat

abnormally, which can lead to death.

They suggested that if someone was in distress in the water, they should call 999 for assistance rather than going into

the water to try to rescue them.