An RNLI spokesperson said: “Choose a lifeguarded beach where possible and always swim between the red and yellow flags.
“Check the weather and tide times before entering the water.”
They added: “Never underestimate the effects of cold water, even in warm weather.”
Hatti Mellor, Guy Addington and Kate Barkley in front of one of Brighton’s lifeguard pods (Image: The Argus)
The RNLI’s ‘Float to Live’ guidance advises people to tilt their head back, relax, and control their breathing if they get into trouble in the water.
Regional water safety lead for the RNLI in the South East Guy Addington said: “We’ve had about 50 people come forward to explain to us that that message, that technique, has really helped them in their time of need and they’re still around tell the tale so we’re really confident that it’s a good piece of advice.”
The campaign has a clear message for those who find themselves in difficulty in cold water.
“The advice is simple: if you find yourself in difficulty, particularly unexpectedly, the message is, instead of sort of succumbing to that instinct to panic and thrash around and to swim hard, instead, try to relax, try and float on the back.”
Anyone who sees someone in difficulty should call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
Alternatively, the RNLI told us they should throw something in the water that floats, but not to enter the water to rescue them.
Source link
[Featured]
[Just In]
