Important Water Safety Message from Bedfordshire Fire & Rescue

Important Water Safety Message – Please Read

As the weather becomes warmer, we want to share some vital information about water safety. Many young people enjoy spending time near rivers, lakes, and other open water, but these environments can be very dangerous—even for strong swimmers.

This message is supported by Bedfordshire Fire & Rescue Service and local partners, including the Police, East of England Ambulance Service (EEAST), and Local Authorities, who often respond to water-related incidents during the summer.

Open Water areas may look inviting but hide serious hazards such as:

• Cold Water Shock – sudden immersion in cold water can cause panic and breathing difficulties
• Hidden Dangers – weeds, rubbish, currents, and sudden changes in water depth
• Risk of Injury – from jumping or diving into unknown water

You can find more information about water safety on the Respect The Water website: www.respectthewater.com and on the Bedfordshire Fire & Rescue Service website: www.bedsfire.gov.uk.

Emergency Advice

If someone is in trouble in the water:

• Do not enter the water yourself
• Call 999 and ask for: FIRE SERVICE for inland water emergencies
• Call 999 and ask for: COASTGUARD for coastal incidents
• Use available lifesaving equipment such as throwlines, lifebelts, or branches
• Encourage the person to float on their back and stay calm until help arrives