Summer swim warning after 24 fatalities in 5 years

A fire service has warned people about swimming in open water after 24 deaths in five years.

In that time, Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service (BFRS) has attended 23 water rescue incidents where people died, including a 13-year-old child.

Temperatures are expected to hit 30C (86F) through the last week of May, coinciding with the half-term holiday.

Robert Hulatt, head of prevention at BFRS, said: "Bedfordshire has a wide variety of lakes, quarries and waterways, all of which carry hidden dangers."

"Even on a warm day the temperature in open water can remain very cold, causing cold water shock, a physical reaction which can make it difficult to control breathing, cause panic and make it difficult to swim," the group commander added.

The fire service attended a further 38 non-fatal water rescue incidents, and warned people against over-confidence.

"Don't assume that because you can swim in a swimming pool you can cope with the challenges of open water. There are no lifeguards to help if you get into trouble," it said.

The fire service said people could still be at risk of drowning by falling into deep water, even if they never intended to go swimming.

It said this accounted for 41% of water-related deaths in England between 2019 and 2023.

"Slips, trips and falls while taking part in recreational activities near water can cause people to enter the water unexpectedly, increasing their risk of drowning," it said.

Hulatt said: "We want everyone to enjoy themselves around water, but it's crucial to remember that water can be unpredictable and dangerous.

"By following some simple safety tips, we can significantly reduce the risk of drowning."

It gave this advice if you see someone in trouble in the water:

• Call 999 and ask for the fire service - the service best trained to deal with a rescue
• Shout and encourage them to float on their back. Let them know that help is on the way
• Find a rescue aid such as a life ring, throw line or reach pole. If there is no public rescue aid equipment, throw anything that will float
• Don't be tempted to go in. The water might be cold, which will limit your ability to swim
• Before pulling someone out of the water, get down on one knee or lie down so you don't fall in
• Keep sight of the casualty to help the emergency services locate them more quickly

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