RNLI Urges Public to Follow Water Safety Advice as Hot Weather Arrives

The RNLI is urging people to take water safety seriously as a spell of hot weather is forecast this week, with increased numbers expected at beaches, lakes, rivers and canals.

The charity is reminding the public that open water remains cold year-round, warning that sudden immersion can trigger cold water shock, leading to panic, loss of control and in some cases drowning.

RNLI Water Safety Education Manager Finn Mullen said while warm weather is welcome, people must take precautions when entering the water.

He warned that cold water shock can cause uncontrollable gasping and a sudden increase in heart rate, and advised people to enter water slowly to allow the body to adjust.

The RNLI is also reminding people of its “Float to Live” guidance for anyone who gets into difficulty in the water. The advice is to tilt the head back, relax, float on your back and control breathing before attempting to swim to safety or call for help.

For those who witness someone in trouble, the RNLI says people should follow the “Phone, Float, Throw” approach — call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard, encourage the person to float, and throw something buoyant such as a life ring, without entering the water themselves.

The charity is encouraging families to discuss water safety with young people ahead of the summer holidays, and to use lifeguarded beaches where possible, swimming between the red and yellow flags.

The RNLI says sharing its safety advice can help prevent avoidable drownings across both coastal and inland waterways.