02/06/2026
🌞 As the weather gets warmer, more people will be heading to rivers, lakes, reservoirs, canals, and other open water locations to cool off.
Sadly, recent tragedies involving children losing their lives in open water serve as a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers these environments can present.
Please take a moment to speak with your children, family members, and friends about water safety:
💧 Never enter open water alone.
💧 Avoid swimming in unfamiliar locations.
💧 Cold water shock can affect even strong swimmers.
💧 Hidden currents, deep water, and underwater hazards can be difficult to spot.
💧 Stay away from the edges of reservoirs, rivers, and canals where slips and falls can happen.
💧 If someone gets into difficulty, call 999 and ask for the appropriate emergency service. Do not enter the water yourself—throw something that floats and encourage them to float on their back.
Parents and carers are encouraged to know where children are spending their time, especially during school holidays and warm evenings.
A few minutes spent talking about water safety could save a life.
