To mark World Drowning Prevention Day, Humberside Fire and Rescue Service, in partnership with the East Riding of Yorkshire Council, and supported by the East Riding Community Safety Partnership have introduced enhanced safety measures at several key waterways across East Riding of Yorkshire. This initiative includes the strategic installation of throwlines, which are essential for providing immediate assistance during water rescues and offering a vital lifeline to individuals in distress.
Throwlines have been placed at identified locations, including Beverley Beck, High Eske, Tickton Bridge, Sugar Mill Ponds in Rawcliffe, North Frodingham, and Goole Marina. Details of how to use them are provided on information boards.
Sarah Wilkinson, Head of Prevention at Humberside Fire and Rescue Service, said: "It’s with great thanks to our colleagues at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, the OPCC and local
landowners for their commitment and collaboration in making this project a reality. We are fortunate to live in such a beautiful area surrounded by wildlife, but the remoteness of some waterways can present significant challenges for emergency services.
“It is important to note that the installation of these throwlines does not designate these areas as safe for swimming. On the contrary, we urge everyone to remain vigilant and adhere to safety procedures when near water to ensure the wellbeing of themselves and their loved ones.
“The installation of throwlines across the region highlights our ongoing commitment to improving water safety and providing crucial support to those in need. This initiative marks the beginning of our efforts and we look forward to continuing our collaboration with local authorities and landowners across the Humber region."
World Drowning Prevention Day serves as a timely reminder of being safe around water. While hotter weather may lure us to the water, it's crucial to know the risks, especially cold-water shock, which can have fatal consequences.
In the event of someone falling into deep water, call for help and dial 999. It’s useful to have What3Words app to help emergency services in locating you precisely within a 3-meter square.
Here are our tips to remember when near water:
- Pay attention to any warning or safety signs.
- Never swim alone in case you need help.
- Don’t dive or jumping straight into open water, this can cause potentially fatal cold water shock even on the hottest day.
- Avoid drinking alcohol when you’re near or on the water, it impairs judgement and your ability to swim – even for the strongest swimmers.
- Actively supervise children in and around water - drowning can happen fast and silently.
- Watch for trip or slip hazards around water and stick to designated pathways - note that riverbanks and cliff edges may be unstable and prone to collapse.
- If you find yourself unexpectedly in the water and find yourself struggling to swim, remember Float to Live; tilt your head back, extend your arms and legs out and float on your back. Once your breathing is under control call for help.
- Never enter the water to try and rescue someone, call 999 and ask for the Fire Service if inland and the Coastguard if you are at the coast.