Agencies unite to spread safety messages this World Drowning Prevention Day

On World Drowning Prevention Day (Thursday 25 July), Avon Fire & Rescue Service (AF&RS), His Majesty’s Coastguard (HMCG) and the RNLI are coming together in Weston-super-Mare to raise awareness of the dangers of the water.

With school holidays almost upon us, many people will be heading to the coast for a much needed day out by the sea. Weston-super-Mare has long been known for its iconic beach, and thousands are expected to flock to the area this summer.

Despite it’s beauty, local firefighters, coastguard rescue officers and RNLI lifeboat crews know the hidden dangers of the area all too well. To raise awareness of lifesaving advice, the agencies have teamed up for an event at the RNLI station this Thursday (25) between 13:30 and 14:30.

Weston-super-Mare firefighters said: “World Drowning Prevention Day is an important opportunity for us to share these key messages, particularly ahead of what will be a busy summer season for all of our agencies.

“We want people to make great memories by the coast, and enjoy their time by the sea safely. If you take away one piece of advice, let it be to always avoid the mud along the coastline. Weston has one of the largest tidal ranges in the world, meaning that the water can come in much faster and higher than you think. If you’re stuck in the mud, things can get very scary, very quickly.”

AF&RS advice is simple, and following it will ensure that you have a safer summer:

  • Only go where you know it’s safe, avoid the mud along the coast.
  • Check tide times before venturing out onto the beach
  • Obey signs along the coast such as ‘danger, sinking mud’ and never go where it is prohibited
  • If someone gets into difficulty along the coast, call 999 and ask for the coastguard
More information on coastal safety
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