Avon Fire Service now rescues more people from water than fire
The service is urging caution and safety around water as summer approaches
Avon Fire & Rescue Service reports that they now rescue more people from the water than they do from fire, amid an increase in water-related call-outs.
With the impending summer, the service is urging caution around open water as part of the Be Water Aware Week.
Across the UK, 1,602 accidental drownings occurred in just five years. Inland waters such as rivers, lakes, and reservoirs accounted for 56% of these fatalities.
One concerning statistic reveals that 46% of drownings in individuals aged 18 to 25 involve alcohol or drugs, amplifying the need for awareness and preventive measures during social occasions near water.
Key safety advice includes the Float to Live strategy—if one falls into water, lie on your back, gently move arms and legs to stay afloat, calm breathing, and shout for help.
Jacq Hardwick, Water Safety Lead for Avon Fire & Rescue Service, commented: “With the River Avon running through the heart of Bath, it is vital to raise awareness of the risks associated with open water, particularly as warmer weather approaches.
"This week is designed to equip the public with knowledge of how to keep themselves and others safe in and around our waterways, along with the confidence of knowing how to respond should something go wrong.”
The Be Water Aware campaign's goal is to spotlight the preventable nature of drownings and provide essential guidance to maintain safety.
For further details on safety measures and potential events, visit Avon Fire & Rescue Service’s website or the NFCC’s Be Water Aware platform.