10/06/2026
This week, ahead of Drowning Prevention Week, we held an assembly to discuss water safety and specifically the dangers of open water. We discussed local places children go to enjoy the water including Burnsall, Gargrave river and Embsay reservoir.
We learned that often reservoirs contain machinery which is why they are not safe to swim in and that rivers can have fast currents and hidden rocks.
Teachers shared how they enjoy the water which includes paddling, only swimming when they can see the bottom and wearing the correct kit, like a life vest or wetsuit.
We reminded children that the open water is a perfect place to cool down on a hot day but gave advice about how to do it safely. Finally we learned the water safety code - Stop and think, stay together, if in difficulty - float, in an emergency call 999 or 112.
See if your child can remember ways to stay safe in the water!
