Support for water dangers initiative

LOUGHBOROUGH Fire Station has joined the call from the Chief Fire Officers Association to raise awareness of the dangers of carrying out everyday activities near water.

Statistics show nearly 50 per cent of people who accidentally drown in the UK never intended to enter the water, according to the station.

A spokesperson from Loughborough Station said: “Drowning is amongst the leading causes of accidental deaths in the UK.

“We aim to raise awareness of water safety to prevent drowning.

“Inland water can be extremely dangerous with hidden hazards under the surface, such as rubbish, broken glass or shopping trolleys.

“Steep banks of rivers, lakes and canals make getting out of the water extremely difficult.

“If you’re on the way back from a night out, take a different route home away from water to prevent an accident.

“Thirty-five per cent of people who have drowned in previous years had alcohol in their system.

“In the event of an incident, dial 999 immediately and request the fire and ambulance services for assistance on inland waters.

“Give the operator a precise location, utilise your smart phone if you have one.

“Do not enter the water yourself to attempt a rescue, you may become a casualty yourself.

“Use lifesaving equipment if there is any available from the water’s edge such as throw lines or lifebelts until the emergency services arrive.

“We will also be supporting national Drowning Prevention Week by giving water safety advice through our social media pages and placing safety notices at local water sites around the Loughborough area.”