Water Safety
Every year, over 200 people lose their lives in water-related incidents in the UK.
Stay safe this summer – respect the water
With warmer weather on the way, many of us will be spending more time outdoors, near rivers, lakes, and the coast. But while the air may feel warm, water temperatures can remain dangerously cold. Cold water shock is a real risk, and too many people are unaware of how quickly it can take hold.
Did you know?
Every year, over 200 people lose their lives in water-related incidents in the UK. According to the Water Incident Database:
🔹 Inland waterways—rivers, lakes, and reservoirs—are the most common locations for accidental drowning.
🔹 Males are consistently overrepresented in these tragic statistics.
🔹 Many victims were never planning to enter the water—they were walking or running nearby before the accident happened.
Whether you’re at work or enjoying your free time, would you know what to do in an emergency?
Our proactive approach
To help keep people safe, our Local Services teams have taken action. Rescue throw bags are now carried in vehicles, and frontline staff have been trained in how to use them to assist in an emergency.
What can you do?
If you see someone in trouble in the water this summer, follow these three lifesaving steps:
🆘 CALL – Dial 999 (or 112) and ask for Fire & Rescue (inland) or the Coastguard (coastal).
📢 TELL – Encourage the person to float on their back to regain control of their breathing.
🎯 THROW – If it’s safe to do so, use a throw bag or any floating object to help them stay afloat.
Take a moment to educate yourself and those around you—it could save a life. Stay safe, stay aware, and always respect the water.
Find out more:
RLSS: Water Safety Advice | Royal Life Saving Society UK ( RLSS UK )
RNLI: Water Safety Advice And Tips – Know The Risks (rnli.org)
National Water Safety Forum: #RespectTheWater | National Water Safety Forum
National Fire Chiefs Council: Be Water Aware – NFCC
Sunderland tide times: Tidal Information | Port of Sunderland