Oxfordshire fire crews launch water safety campaign

Water safety advice is being issued linked to concerns about people getting into difficulty in the county’s waterways and lakes or during visits to the seaside, particularly during the hot weather.

Oxfordshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service is warning that even on a hot day, the temperature of a body of open water can remain very cold, meaning falling or intentionally jumping in can result in a cold shock response.

There are many hazards under the surface in rivers that may entrap a person. Outside of the county, rip currents in the sea can be a serious dangers to even the most competent swimmers. Using supervised venues or swimming pools is much safer.

Deb Forder, Safety Manager for Oxfordshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Open water can look appealing, especially on warm days, but it is also very dangerous. That is why the practical advice we’re offering is so important, particularly during the hot weather when residents are more likely to be tempted to take a dip.

“Please consider things such as letting friends and family know your route near water and what time you should return. Carry a whistle and your phone in a water proof pouch to draw attention if you do get into difficulties.

“If you are submerged in water unexpectedly, your body will gasp for air meaning that you could breathe in water and hyperventilate. This over breathing can make you lightheaded and, as your brain is deprived of oxygen, you may become disoriented.

“Your body’s cold shock response, which speeds up the heart rate, may conflict with the diving response, which does the opposite, causing your heart to go into abnormal rhythms, which can cause sudden death.

“If you fall in, remember to relax, lean back and “float to live” until you can control your breathing.”

Anyone witnessing someone in trouble in the water should call 999 or 112 and shout for help. They shouldn’t enter the water themselves; instead, throw something in that will float.

Oxfordshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service is warning that there are other dangers of open water. Be aware that:

• Reservoirs, lakes, rivers and other inland water may look safe and inviting, particularly on a warm day. But there are hidden dangers below the surface that could make people ill, cause injury, even kill.
• Choose a lifeguarded beach if planning to go into the sea.
• Even on a hot day, the temperature of the water in a reservoir, quarry, lake and the sea can remain very cold. The low water temperature can numb limbs and claim lives.
• From the surface, it is not always possible to see what is under the water. This could be anything from large rocks to machinery, from shopping trolleys to branches and even fish hooks or broken fishing line, all of which could cause injury.
• The water in rivers and the sea might look calm but there could be strong currents below the surface, or strong rip tides that can pull the strongest of swimmers out to sea. Even reservoirs have currents, caused by working machinery.

Deb added: “A simple change to our behaviour can reduce the risk of drowning. Avoid high risk areas, be aware of your surroundings and know how to react if you or someone else falls in.

“Respect the water, even if you’re a good swimmer and familiar with the river, lake or reservoir. Be water aware.”

Further information and advice are available on the water safety section of Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue’s YouTube channel or visit the Royal Life Saving Society UK’s website.

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