Online lifesaving course launched

An online lifesaving course has been launched to help reduce the risk of drowning.

The Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK) has issued a plea for families to learn how to keep themselves safe near water.

Lifeguard patrols have been postponed until further notice while officials at the RLSS UK fear that when the lockdown finally lifts, families will flock to beaches and inland water locations without considering the potential dangers, resulting in an increase in drownings.

As a result, the charity has launched its new Lifesaver-Lifechanger Toolkit, a free, practical water safety course to teach people how to be lifesavers.

The online course has four units – an introduction to water safety; top tips on how to stay safe around water; what to if you or someone else finds themselves in an emergency; and how to perform a rescue from land.

Robert Gofton, CEO for RLSS UK, said: “There are restrictions in place across the UK and Ireland which makes our waterways potentially even more dangerous, as lifeguard services aren’t operational and emergency services are stretched.

“First off, safety is paramount, so we urge the public to follow advice and stay out of harm's way. Our biggest concern is that once the lockdown lifts, people will quite rightly want to escape their homes and visit our beautiful waterways or coastlines.

“We want to make sure that they do so safely and now is the perfect time to sit down as a family and learn these essential life-changing skills.”

Visit www.rlss.org.uk