25th July 2024 World Drowning Prevention Day Press Release

Press Release

Above Water Urges Caution and Education on World Drowning Prevention Day

Thursday, 25 July 2024

Today marks World Drowning Prevention Day, a critical reminder from Above Water, the water safety in education charity, for everyone heading to water this summer holiday. Understanding the environment you are visiting is crucial for safety. If you're heading to the coast, try to visit a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags. However, with only 238 lifeguarded beaches in the UK, water safety education is paramount.

Above Water also shares important messaging about swimming in inland waterways like rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. As the school holidays begin across England, the charity is committed to spreading basic lifesaving safety advice.

In 2023, the UK experienced 659 water-related fatalities, an increase from 597 in 2022. Thousands more faced near-drowning incidents and required rescues. As an island nation, we are surrounded by water, offering tremendous opportunities for health and happiness. Enjoying these blue spaces is possible only if we understand the dangers and know how to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe.

Brendon Prince, Founder of Above Water, emphasized: “On World Drowning Prevention Day, we want to remind everyone that visiting water offers fantastic fun for the summer holidays, but basic lifesaving knowledge is essential before any visit.”

How We Can Work Together to Prevent Drowning:

  1. Learn to Swim
  2. Understand the Message: STOP, LOOK, LISTEN, FLOAT
  3. Supervise Children
  4. Avoid Alcohol and Drugs Around Water
  5. Wear a Buoyancy Aid
  6. Know the Conditions and How They Can Affect Your Experience
  7. Know Your Own Ability
  8. Learn Basic First Aid/CPR

Prince further advises: “When visiting water, STOP & LOOK for a moment to assess the conditions. Is the water cold? Is it dangerous due to flow or other factors? LISTEN to lifeguards and those familiar with the water you’re visiting. If you get into trouble, FLOAT on your back; tilt your head back with ears submerged, try to relax and control your breathing. Use your hands to help stay afloat, then call for help or swim to safety if possible. In a coastal emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard. Inland, call 999 and ask for Fire & Rescue.”

Additional Resources and Support

Above Water offers a range of educational resources and training programs designed to promote water safety. These include school visits, community workshops, and online materials aimed at all age groups. The charity's mission is to ensure everyone has access to the knowledge and skills needed to stay safe around water.

Prince added, "We deeply appreciate the support of our community, partners, and volunteers in spreading this vital message. Together, we can make a significant impact and prevent unnecessary tragedies this summer."

For more information on water safety and drowning prevention, visit our website or contact us at info@abovewater.org. Stay safe and enjoy the water responsibly this summer!

Contact:

Brendon Prince
Founder, Above Water
Email: brendon@abovewater.org
Phone: 07974243965

Website: Above Water

Social Media:
Facebook: Above Water
Twitter: @AboveWaterUK
Instagram: @AboveWaterUK

Let's work together to make every water experience a safe one!