Life-saving organisations have united to urge people to enjoy the Lake District’s waters safely.
The prolonged spell of hot and dry weather experienced in the county this spring has resulted in water levels dropping at lakes across the area.
As a result, underwater shelves found in many of the area’s lakes are much closer to the edge of the water – meaning the depth can change unexpectedly, resulting in sudden drops.
Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service, the Lake District National Park Authority, and the Coastguard – members of Cumbria Water Safety Partnership – came together by Coniston Water to showcase the dangers and remind visitors of key water safety advice.
William Watson, station manager at Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service, said: “We want people to enjoy our waters, but it’s important that they do so safely and remember our key water safety advice.
“That is to Float to Live if you find yourself in difficulty, and to Call, Tell, Throw if you see somebody else in trouble.”
Ronnie Muggridge, ranger at Lake District National Park Authority, donned his drysuit and walked into the water at Coniston to demonstrate how quickly he lost his footing and began to float – which without appropriate safety gear and preparation could quickly turn into an emergency.
He said: “At the moment because of the dry spell the lakes are extremely low, and that means that there are sudden drops – effectively underwater cliff edges – near the shores of our lakes across the Lake District.
“This makes it quite dangerous for people, even if you don’t intend on entering the water, and we want to make sure people are familiar with all of the relevant safety advice to protect themselves and others.”
Jamie Dalton, senior coastal operations officer at the Coastguard, said: “By coming together to share this message, we hope to prevent incidents across the county and ensure people enjoy a safe visit to our beautiful countryside.”
People are urged to be vigilant for the lake bed changing from clear water to a darker shade where they are unable to see the bottom.
The risk of cold water shock, which can get even experienced swimmers into difficulty, is also being highlighted – wearing an appropriate wetsuit and flotation device is advised if you are spending time in or near water.
If you find yourself in trouble in the water, remember to Float to Live:
- Tilt your head back with ears submerged
- Relax and breathe normally
- Move your hands to help stay afloat
- Spread your arms and legs out
- Once your breathing is controlled, call for help or swim to safety
If someone else is in trouble in the water:
- Call 999 for the emergency services
- Tell the person to float on their back
- Throw them something that floats
With the recent warmer weather there is an increased risk of wildfires, so people are asked not to light barbecues and make sure to take litter home with them.
