27 May 2023
The idea of swimming in a river or lake will be appealing to many people during this current spell of warm weather.
We at Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service are urging people to stay safe when near open water as we enter the summer months.
Around 85% of accidental drownings occur at open water sites, and many of these drownings occur due to a lack of knowledge and understanding of the hazards posed by open water.
Whilst the benefits of open water swimming are well documented, we feel it's important to remind potential swimmers of the hazards posed by swimming in open water:
If you accidentally fall in the water, follow these important safety tips:
If someone falls into the water or gets into trouble whilst swimming, the instinct to jump in and help can be overwhelming, but it can quickly lead to tragedy without the right training or equipment. Stay on land and make the right call, CALL 999. Try and calm the person down, get them to float on their back and reach something out to them (such as a long stick), or use rescue throwlines that may be present.
Rachel Kestin
Communications, Engagement and Consultation Officer
Mid & West Wales Fire & Rescue Service - Carmarthen, Carmarthenshire
01267 226893
r.kestin@mawwfire.gov.uk