Service issues swimming safety message

With warm weather continuing this week, Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service is asking holidaymakers to follow safety tips and swim safely this summer.

Head of Community Safety Karen Jones says, “As we enter peak summer season, plenty of people will be enjoying the water in pools or in the sea – but unfortunately there are about 260 accidental inland fatal drownings each year in the UK with higher risks in Wales. According to figures produced by The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), Welsh men, espcially those aged between 15-30 are at a higher than average risk of accidental drowning.

“Take heed of swimming safety information notices and don’t overestimate your swimming ability or fitness levels. Swimming in open water, even for strong swimmers, is very challenging so please observe our water safety advice and never swim in reservoirs or disused quarries.”

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service urges all swimmers and holidaymakers to observe the following safety advice:

• Children in and around water must be kept under constant supervision at all times.
• Read and follow pool and beach safety information and check if lifeguards are present.
• Be aware of hazards and surroundings – check where the deep and shallow ends of a pool are, and if by the sea, check for rocks and whether strong currents in the sea.
• Know your own ability, be aware of tiredness and dehydration in the heat.
• Don’t swim when you’ve been drinking alcohol.
• Beware of hazards and swimming conditions, particularly in the sea.
• Buddy-up – look out for your mates.
• Remember swimming in open water is different to a swimming pool –open water swimming in cold deep water is more difficult.