Be summer-safe near open water this summer

THE Hazardous Area Response Team for South Central Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SCAS HART) is encouraging everyone to be safe around open water this summer.

People of all ages can get into difficulty in all types of open water including ponds, lakes, rivers, reservoirs, quarries, docks or beach. SCAS’s diverse geographical region covering Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Hampshire and Oxfordshire contains all of these water locations.

The team know only too well how quickly people can get into difficulty in water, which can result in serious injury and even death. That’s why they are sharing ten pieces of advice on staying safe around open water:
1. Only swim in designated areas
2. Before you venture into open water, make sure you know your location and where the safety precautions are such as life rings should you get into difficulty.
3. Know your swimming ability
4. Even if you’re a strong swimmer, open water can overpower you and sap your swimming ability so don’t take unnecessary risks or be tempted to show off to friends.

SCAS’s HART has specially trained water instructors who ensure their colleagues are trained to treat patients in all water scenarios including inland, coastal, mud and swift water rescues. SCAS HART operatives regularly train at a variety of water venues to ensure that they are ready to respond to any water incident.

Colin Rotchell, HART Team Educator and Lead Water Rescue Instructor at SCAS said: “We are encouraging members of the public to enjoy the summer and the water but to do so safely so that you do not become a casualty. It is very easy to get into danger without realising the hazards including those hidden beneath the water line, so please take heed of our advice and only swim in places where there are the appropriate safety precautions.”