Raising awareness after 16 incidents in Norfolk last year saw people die due to accidental drowning

There were 16 incidents in Norfolk last year where people died due to accidental drowning.

The Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service is encouraging people to learn life-saving water safety skills this spring and summer in a bid to reduce these numbers moving forward.

Monday marks the start of the National Fire Chiefs Council’s Be Water Aware Week, which aims to raise awareness about the risk of accidental drowning and provide water safety advice ahead of the warmer months.

Emyr Gough, head of prevention and protection at the Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We want everyone, residents and visitors alike, to enjoy spending time on and near the water in Norfolk this year but we want people to do it safely.

“Take some time now to learn what to do if someone gets into difficulty in the water and then please share that information with your friends and family. It could save someone’s life.”

The service has issued the following advice:

• Call 999 for help if someone is in trouble in the water – do not attempt to rescue them yourself.

• Ask for the Coastguard if you are at the coast or on the Broads or Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service if you are inland.

• Tell the person in the water to float on their back and throw something to them like a throwline - but anything that floats can help save a life.

• Stay safe near any open water. Most people who drown had no intention of entering the water – such as people walking near it and slipping, tripping or falling.

• Respect the water – it is stronger than you think. Even calm looking waters can have strong currents, cold temperatures and hidden dangers.

• Cold water shock can affect your ability to swim. Even in the summer, enter water slowly to acclimatise rather than jumping in.

• Float to live – if you do get into difficulty in the water, lie back in a star position with your ears submerged and float to regain control of your breathing.

• Do not go into the water under the influence or alcohol or drugs. This can lead to drowning.

• Wear a lifejacket - however strong a swimmer you are. It is an essential piece of kit to keep you safe.