Articles
Open Water Safety
Open Water can be more dangerous than it looks
Over the past year there has been a worrying rise in open water deaths of children and young people. Don’t let a day out turn into a tragedy. Stay safe. Stay alive.
A message for young people
- Don’t let peer pressure make decisions for you.
- If something feels unsafe, trust your instincts and say no.
- Never jump into open water to impress others or follow a crowd.
- Stay with friends, but don’t encourage risky behaviour.
- If someone gets into difficulty, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard, Fire Service, or Ambulance Service.
Never enter the water yourself to attempt a rescue.
A message for carers and families
- Talk openly about the dangers of open water.
- Encourage children and young people to make safe choices, even when friends are taking risks.
- Know where children are spending their time during the warmer months.
- Your conversation today could save a life.
Being brave isn’t taking risks. Being brave is making the right choice when others are pressuring you to do something dangerous.
Useful links
RLSS UK – Open Water Safety
Advice, education and resources to help keep you safe.
www.rlss.org.uk
South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue
Water safety advice and community safety information.
www.southyorksfire.gov.uk
The Story of Sam
A powerful short film for parents and kids about open water safety
tiktok.com/@southyorkshirefire
Water can be beautiful. It can also be deadly. Make safe choices.
