Kent Fire and Rescue warn people to stay safe around bodies of water
Kent Fire and Rescue service are reminding people to call them if they see someone struggling in inland water.
Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) is reintroducing its 'Make the Right Call' campaign to tackle accidental drownings across Kent and Medway, focusing on swift emergency response and survival strategies.
Over the past three years, KFRS has attended more than 300 water-related incidents, resulting in 23 tragic deaths.
The campaign aims to minimise such incidents by ensuring that the correct emergency services are dispatched promptly.
James Kitchen, Station Manager for water rescue at KFRS, said: “Knowing who to call in the event of a water-related emergency is crucial to getting help quickly, so remember:
“For inland water - such as in rivers, lakes or other areas of inland water - people should call 999 and ask for the fire service.
“For rescues at sea – on the coast or seaside - call 999 and ask for the coastguard.
“And give the control operator as much detail as you can, including where you are, what the person is wearing and keep them in sight until crews get there.
“The control operator could ask questions that might not seem relevant, but the information will help inform crews while they’re already on their way to the incident.
“Make the right call, and you could help save valuable time and ultimately, someone’s life.”
The campaign also aims to highlight important survival guidance for anyone who finds themselves struggling in water.
James added: “If you’re in difficulty in water, try to stay calm and float with your head titled back and ears submerged. If you need to, gently move your hands and legs to help to stay afloat.
“Spreading your arms and legs out will improve stability – and it's OK if your legs sink, everyone floats differently. Once your breathing is under control, call for help or swim to safety.”
Medway, Maidstone, and Folkestone and Hythe have the highest incident rates, with recommendations applicable countywide, one local group taking part this year are Maidstone River parkrun, their director Chris Gedge said:
“Our weekly run is along the River Medway, which is a well-used route for not just runners, but also walkers and other river users, so we understand the importance of being vigilant and knowing to call 999 for the fire service if we see someone struggling in the water.
"Following last year's campaign, we updated our event to include a throwline with our tail walking marshal and to help raise awareness, we’ll be including the campaign’s safety advice in our pre-event safety briefings.”
The fire service also told us it was important people took this onboard for the bank holiday, as dangers were higher when drinking near bodies of water.