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Visitors to Harbour Fest are invited to attend a water safety demonstration delivered by Avon Fire & Rescue Service at the Mud Dock on Sunday 19 July. Taking place from 11:20am to 12:00pm, the demonstration will showcase some of the specialist skills, techniques and equipment used by firefighters to respond to water-related emergencies.
The event will provide an opportunity for members of the public to see crews in action and learn more about how to stay safe in and around the water.
Event details:
Location: Mud Dock, Bristol Harbour
Date: Sunday 19 July
Time: 11:20am–12:00pm
During the demonstration, specialist crews will highlight the challenges of water rescue incidents and explain how emergency responders work to assist people in difficulty. Firefighters will also share practical water safety advice, helping visitors understand the risks associated with open water and what to do in an emergency.
Jacq Hardwick, Water Safety Lead for Avon Fire & Rescue Service said:
“We are looking forward to taking part in Harbour Fest and engaging with local communities. This demonstration is a great opportunity to showcase the specialist capabilities of our crews while sharing potentially life-saving water safety advice. We encourage visitors to come along, watch the demonstration and learn more about staying safe around water.”
With warmer weather and the summer holidays approaching, Avon Fire and Rescue Service is also reminding everyone to stay safe around water. While rivers, lakes, quarries and other open water locations can be appealing places to cool off, they can present hidden dangers including cold water shock, strong currents, submerged objects and sudden changes in depth.
If you find yourself in difficulty in the water, remember Float to Live by tilting your head back, spread your arms and legs in a starfish shape, try to control your breathing before calling for help or swimming to safety. If you see someone else in trouble in the water, call 999. NEVER enter the water yourself. Instead, encourage them to float and, if possible, throw them something that floats.
By taking a few simple precautions, we can all help prevent water-related incidents and enjoy the summer safely.