With the schools soon breaking up for summer, and the promise of warmer weather, now is the time to talk to your kids and teenagers about water safety.
The Safer Slough Partnership works to educate the community about the dangers of open water, to teach people how to enjoy water safely, and show them what to do if there’s an emergency.
The partnership includes the council, Thames Valley Police and Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service.
It’s important to teach children from a young age to have respect for open water, talk to teenagers about the risks, and to stay safe around open water wherever you are.
It’s much safer to swim in a pool or lido where there are lifeguards, such as The Centre in Slough, or in organised open water groups who have much more knowledge of safe swimming.
In the past, we have had deaths along the Slough stretch of the Jubilee River. This was designed as a flood relief channel and not as a place for recreational swimming.
In the Jubilee River, there is a risk of debris underneath the water, fast-flowing currents, and the potential for cold water shock. This happens very quickly and can happen to anyone, even if they’re usually a strong swimmer.
Cold water shock doesn’t happen in just icy cold water, it can be anything from approximately the temperature of a swimming pool and below.
Councillor Chandra Muvvala, Lead Member for Public Protection, IT, Customer Service and Young Futures, said: “One death in the water is one too many.
“According to the Royal Life Saving Society, around 85% of all accidental drownings occur at open water sites and many of these occur due to a lack of knowledge and understanding of open water safety.
“We want to highlight the importance of having these important conversations about the risks and how to stay safe around any open water, such as canals, rivers, and pools. Please review the suggested resources and have a safe summer.”
You should never swim in open water alone. If you see someone in trouble, call 999, tell them to float on their back and throw them a life ring or emergency throwline if there is one.
There are lots of useful links for more information and advice.
• Video by the friends and family of Michael Scaife who lost his life in the Jubilee River - Safety on the Jubilee River - remembering Michael Scaife - YouTube
• Video with Olympic Gold Medallist swimmer Tom Dean - Be #Waterwise this Summer - YouTube
• Water safety – Frimley Health and Care
• Child-friendly resources – Royal Life Saving Society
Please take some time to have a look. It could save a life.