Did you know? Water safety starts before you enter the water
As the long hot summer continues, heading to the coast or river can be a great way to cool off. However, even on the hottest days, the water can remain cold enough to cause cold water shock, which can trigger an involuntary gasp, rapid breathing, panic and loss of swimming ability within seconds.
Rivers and open water can also hide strong currents, sudden drop-offs and submerged hazards.
Here are some important sea safety tips:
swim near lifeguards - choose a lifeguarded beach and stay between the red and yellow flags
know the flags - red means danger and no swimming. Black and white chequered flags mark areas for surfboards and other non-powered watercraft
watch for rip currents - if you're caught in a rip current, stay calm and swim parallel to the shore until you're free of it, then make your way back to the beach. Never try to swim directly against the current
check weather, wind and tide conditions - strong winds can quickly change conditions at sea and increase the risk of being swept away. Always check conditions before setting off
check tide times - incoming tides can quickly cut people off near cliffs, rocks and headlands Tide Times
avoid inflatables - airbeds, rubber rings and plastic dinghies can be blown far offshore by even a light breeze. They are not lifesaving devices and should not be used in the sea
River and inland water safety:
Rivers can look calm and inviting, especially during warm weather, but they often hide powerful currents, sudden drops in depth, cold water and underwater hazards.
Every year, people get into difficulty after entering rivers to swim, jump, or cool off. Understanding the risks and making safe choices can help prevent serious injury or loss of life.
Swimming or jumping into the River Arun, particularly around Littlehampton Harbour and the river mouth, can be extremely dangerous for several reasons:
strong tidal currents can rapidly sweep swimmers away, even if they are strong swimmers. The current near the river entrance is powerful enough to pull people away from shore and into deeper water
cold water shock can occur even on warm days. Sudden immersion in cold water can cause involuntary gasping, breathing difficulties, panic, and reduced swimming ability
hidden underwater hazards such as rocks, debris, submerged equipment, and other objects can cause serious injuries, paralysis, or even death if someone jumps or dives into the river
changing water depth due to tides makes it difficult to judge whether the water is deep enough for jumping or diving. What appears safe at high tide may be dangerously shallow at other times
boat traffic poses a significant risk. The River Arun is a busy navigation channel, and vessel operators may not be able to see swimmers in the water in time to avoid a collision
risk of being swept out to sea exists near the harbour entrance and river mouth, particularly on outgoing tides. Several rescues have been carried out after people were caught by currents and unable to return to shore
tombstoning (jumping from walls, bridges, piers or other structures) can result in life-changing spinal injuries, head injuries, or drowning. Local authorities specifically warn against this activity
The River Arun is not a safe place to swim. Keep out, admire from the bank, and stay safe. Recent RNLI warnings followed multiple rescues in the River Arun, including incidents where swimmers were swept into difficulty by tidal currents.
Educate your children - learning to be safe near water is an important part of a child's education. For activities and resources to encourage children to learn more, go here: Water Safety | Canal & River Trust
What to do in an emergency:
float - if you find yourself in difficulty, remember Float to Live . Tilt your head back, keep your ears submerged, relax and control your breathing
call for help - dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard if you're at the coast, or Fire and Rescue Service if you're inland
reach or throw, don't go in - if someone else is in trouble, throw them something that floats and call for help. Do not enter the water yourself.
Remember …
- keep young children within arm's reach around water
- avoid alcohol when swimming or supervising others
- teach children how to swim and understand water safety - any non-swimming adults, you're not the only one, don't be embarrassed, learn to swim!
- always check weather, tide and water conditions before you go
Useful information on this topic can also be found here:
How to stay safe around water
Water Safety at the Beach | Royal Life Saving Society UK ( RLSS UK )
Beach safety | HM Coastguard UK
10 beach safety tips - Met Office
Water Safety | Canal & River Trust
Respect the water. Enjoy the sunshine safely and make sure everyone gets home.