Emergency services host Warwickshire water safety event as schools break up for summer
Free event aims to raise awareness of open water dangers to mark World Drowning Prevention Day
A community water safety event is being held in Warwickshire to raise awareness of the risks associated with open water this World Drowning Prevention Day.
The free event is taking place at Burton Farm in Burton Hastings from 9am until 4pm and has been organised by emergency services and community safety partners.
Visitors will be able to watch water rescue demonstrations by Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service, learn how to use a throw line in an emergency and receive practical water safety advice.
Children and families will also have the opportunity to meet firefighters, police officers, paramedics and community safety teams, as well as see emergency vehicles and specialist equipment on display.
Organisers say the event is intended to help people better understand water safety and the steps that can be taken in an emergency, particularly during the summer holidays when more people spend time near rivers, lakes and other open water sites.
The event forms part of World Drowning Prevention Day, an international campaign that promotes water safety education and awareness of drowning risks.
Rugby Safer Neighbourhood Team Sergeant, Ricky Franklin said: "The summer holidays are a time for children and families to get outdoors and enjoy themselves, and this event is a great opportunity to do just that while learning potentially life-saving skills.
"Families can gain a better understanding of the risks associated with open water, hear directly from emergency service professionals, and learn simple safety advice that could help prevent a tragedy."