27/05/2026
As temperatures rise this half-term, we are urging everyone to take extra care around open water.
It might feel tempting to cool off, but rivers, lakes and reservoirs can be dangerously cold even in hot weather. Cold water shock can hit instantly and lead to serious risk.
Water Safety Public Safety Advice:
- Speak to young people about the dangers of open water.
- Swim in supervised locations.
- Do not jump into water to cool off.
- Never enter the water to attempt a rescue – instead call 999 immediately.
- If spending time in, on or around water, install location apps such as what3 words so if an incident should happen emergency services know where you are.
- Do not enter the water if you have been drinking alcohol.
- Make sure you know how to help yourself and other people in the event of a water-related emergency.
If you see someone else in trouble in the water, remember Phone, Float, Throw:
Read more:
With continuing hot weather over the half term holidays, the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) is issuing an urgent call for parents and carers to speak to young people about the dangers of entering unsupervised open water. The warning comes after four confirmed drownings of teenagers in inland wa...
