This week, Cullercoats Bay in North Tyneside – home to the RNLI lifeboat station – witnessed an amazing show of life-saving solidarity in the build up to World Drowning Prevention Day.
Over 40 representatives from local and regional organisations created a huge ‘circle of life’ in the water to symbolise the lifesaving technique, that could ultimately save someone from drowning this summer. (A full list of the organisation can be found in the ‘Notes to Editors’ section below).
Float to Live is championed by the RNLI and other partnership organisations for being one of the best instinctive water safety methods around to help save someone’s life if they were to become distressed in the water.
This year, World Drowning Prevention Day is being observed internationally on Friday 25th July with the focus to highlight the tragic impact of drowning on families and communities, and offer life-saving solutions to help prevent these occurring in the future.
These five elements of Float to Live (source – RNLI) are probably the most important aspects for you to remember if you ever experience difficulties in the water.
- Tilt your head back (submerging your ears)
- Relax (and control your breathing)
- Move your hands and legs (to help you afloat)
- Your legs may sink – that’s OK (everyone floats differently)
- Practise floating (at a supervised location like a swimming pool)
Steve Thomas, Head of Prevention and Education at Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, said: “With the school summer holidays underway and continued warm weather, we know more people will be heading to the coast, rivers, and lakes to cool off and enjoy the water. Whether it’s a day at the beach or a family break involving water-based activities, it’s vital that everyone understands the risks.
“As a fire and rescue service, we’re urging the public to be water aware. What starts as fun can quickly turn dangerous without the right knowledge. The ‘Float to Live’ campaign provides simple, life-saving advice that can make all the difference in an emergency.
“We’re also encouraging parents and carers to talk to their children about water safety. Sharing these messages could save a life.”
Nick Ayers, RNLI Regional Water Safety Lead, said: “The Circle of Life event at Cullercoats Bay was a powerful visual reminder of the importance of water safety and partnership working. Seeing over 40 individuals coming together to promote Floating shows just how committed we all are to reducing drowning.
“Float to Live is a simple but effective technique that gives people the best chance of surviving if they get into trouble in the water. When panic sets in, floating helps you to regain control, catch your breath and stay calm until help arrives or you can self-rescue.
“As we approach World Drowning Prevention Day, we want everyone heading to the coast, rivers or inland waters to remember this life-saving advice. It really can make the difference between life and death.
“We want everyone to enjoy the water in a safe way, by practicing this lifesaving technique will enhance your enjoyment in the water, but also preparing yourself in case something goes wrong.
“We encourage everyone to practice this when you are next at a supervised location.”
Jo Talbot, a Director at the Royal Life Saving Society UK, said: “A disproportionate number of people drown in the UK between May and August, and we see an increased number of drownings in periods of extreme heat.
“With the warmer weather and summer school holidays beginning, it is vital that everybody is aware of how to stay water smart and safe this summer. World Drowning Prevention Day serves as an important reminder to everyone to equip themselves with the tools and knowledge to stay safe around water.
“When choosing a location to enjoy water this summer, we urge the public to visit somewhere with a lifeguard whenever possible, to actively encourage conversations with little ones around the dangers of water, as well as familiarise themselves with the key Float technique and the Water Safety Code to help prevent any tragedies and ensure they stay safe.”
For more information about the RNLI’s Float to Live campaign please visit https://rnli.org/safety/float
Be water aware and stay safe this summer.
#StaySafe
About the Author
Tyne and Wear Fire & Rescue Service
Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service serves a resident population of 1.104 million divided amongst the five constituent councils of Gateshead, Newcastle, North Tyneside, South Tyneside and Sunderland in the North East of England.
