World Drowning Prevention Day: highlighting water safety for all

Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service is supporting World Drowning Prevention Day on Thursday 25 July by highlighting the dangers of water and sharing some lifesaving tips. 

Anyone can drown, no one should. If you're visiting Norfolk's coast and waterways, remember to: 

• Wear a lifejacket when using kayaks, paddleboards, boats and other craft. Life jackets turn most unconscious wearers onto their back, reducing the chances of drowning 
• Don't swim on your own. Ideally swim where lifeguards are present and swim between the flags at beaches.  
• 'Float to live' if you get into difficulty: tilt your head back with your ears below the water surface and try to breathe normally. Move your hands around to help you stay afloat and spread your arms and legs to help make yourself stable.
• Don't enter the water under the influence of alcohol or drugs. You may normally be a strong swimmer, but drink and drugs will affect your perception and ability to swim.  

Ceri Sumner, Chief Fire Officer, Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service said: "Our crews regularly respond to incidents where people have got into difficulty in water, and sadly some incidents end in tragedy.  

"By supporting World Drowning Prevention Day and following some simple safety measures, we can all enjoy our county's coast and waterways and help prevent more water-related emergencies from happening." 

Visit the World Health Organisation's (WHO) World Drowning Prevention Day webpage  for more about the campaign, and other safety tips.