Now that the weather has warmed up and lockdown in most areas is easing, people are looking to get out and about in, on or around water. I love a good paddle as much as the next person, however there is always a place for a timely reminder to do so safely. The Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS) reminds us that:
“More than 400 people accidentally drown in the UK and Ireland EVERY YEAR
and many more have non-fatal experiences, sometimes suffering life-changing injuries.”
(rlss.org.uk, 2021)
During Drowning Prevention Week, which this year is running from 12-19 June, RLSS are raising awareness and providing information on water safety for:
– On holiday, in UK and abroad
– At home e.g., baths, paddling pools
– Swimming pools – residential or public
– At the beach, riverbank, or lakeshore
– In open water e.g., lakes, sea, rivers etc
The mental and physical health benefits of swimming and other water-based activities are well documented; however, accidents do happen. Most accidents occur due to lack of knowledge and understanding or water safety, but with a bit of awareness and planning you be able to reduce risks and still have a great time!
When fostering, you as foster carers will have checks on the safety of any pools, ponds, water tanks etc, as part of regular, ongoing health & safety reviews, however, please do check out the RLSS website for more in-depth information so that you can make sure that you safely enjoy the great watery outdoors, as well as staying safe at home.
Sources
https://www.rlss.org.uk/pages/category/family-water-safety – Royal Life Saving Society UK
by Lynsey Dobbs – Senior Recruitment Officer, UK Fostering