RNLI shares tips on how to 'Float to Live'
People are being reminded to ‘stay safe at the coast’ and remember to ‘float to live’ this summer.
Today (25 July) marks World Drowning Prevention Day.
It’s an official UN global awareness day coordinated by the World Health Organisation.
Since the RNLI was founded 200 years ago, by Manx resident Sir William Hillary, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved almost 143,000 lives.
Chris Cousens, RNLI Head of Water Safety for Wales, north-west England and the Isle of Man, says: “We know the coast is going to be incredibly busy over the summer holidays and we want everyone to enjoy their time but to also remember our vital safety advice.
"If you get into trouble in the water, Float to Live; tilt your head back with ears submerged and try to relax and control your breathing.
"Use your hands to help you stay afloat and then call for help or swim to safety if you can. It's OK if your legs sink, we all float differently.
"In a coastal emergency, call 999 and ask for the coastguard.
"If you’re going on holiday, or visiting the UK, RNLI lifeguards operate on over 245 beaches, so we encourage you to visit a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags."
In the UK, 236 people accidentally died in water related fatalities in 2023, ten more than in 2022 but in line with the five-year average.
This year the Manx-founded charity celebrates 200 years of saving lives at sea and has a long history of supporting international drowning prevention.
Water Safety Officer Claire Hamer is based at Peel Lifeboat Station:
You can listen to the full interview with Claire here:
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