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Avon Fire & Rescue Services, Water Safety Event Success at Bath Fire Station for Be Water Aware Week.

Good news
Bath & North East Somerset

Avon Fire & Rescue Service (AF&RS) hosted a highly successful community event at Bath Fire Station on, 12th April raising awareness around Water Safety in line with The National Fire Chief’s Council’s Be Water Aware Week (28th April – 2nd May). The free, family-friendly event successfully drew in visitors of all ages, with a variety of planned activities for attendees including, Water Safety Station Trail for younger visitors, interactive demonstrations by our crews, and practical advice on how to stay safe around water (particularly as we approach the warmer months).

We were delighted to be joined by colleagues from the RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution), who supported the day by sharing life-saving knowledge in an engaging and accessible way.

Thanks to generous donations from attendees, the event raised £578.95 for The Fire Fighters Charity.

Attendees were reminded of crucial Water Safety advice:

  • Float to Live – If you fall into water, lie on your back, moving your arms and legs gently to stay afloat, calm your breathing, and shout for help.
  • ALWAYS call 999 if you see a person or animal struggling in the water – NEVER enter the water to attempt a rescue.
  • Our River Rescue Cabinets save lives. They are located at regular intervals along the river path in Bath and around Bristol Harbourside. Follow the instructions on the cabinet to access lifesaving equipment.
  • Avoid Alcohol Around Water – Alcohol significantly impairs judgment and increases the risk of drowning.

“We’re proud to be raising awareness ahead of Be Water Aware Week. Events like these save lives by educating the community to understand risks around water and how to respond safely in an emergency. Huge thanks to the RNLI, and all the brilliant AF&RS crews and staff who made this event such a success.”

Jacq Hardwick, Water Safety Lead at AF&RS

For more detailed advice on how to stay safe in and around the water, visit our Water Safety webpage for practical advice and downloadable resources.

You can also visit the National Fire Chiefs Council Be Water Aware Week website to find more useful resources and more information about the national campaign.

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