Sunderland marks World Drowning Prevention Day

Sunderland City Council is joining forces with the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) to highlight the dangers of open water and cold water shock, and to raise awareness of what to do if you find yourself in trouble in open water.

People planning to swim in Sunderland are being encouraged to choose a swimming pool where lifeguards are on duty, or between the red and yellow flags on an RNLI lifeguarded beach.

RNLI Lifeguards are on duty every day from 10am to 6pm at Roker, Seaburn, and Cat and Dogs beaches throughout the summer, from late May until 6 September.

To support the national awareness campaign, Sunderland's landmarks will be lit up to raise awareness of drowning prevention. Penshaw Monument, Northern Spire Bridge, Hylton Castle, Cliffe Park Lighthouse and Fulwell Mill will be lit up blue from dusk on Saturday 25 July.

Councillor Ciera Hudspith, Sunderland City Council's Cabinet Member for Culture, Tourism and Heritage, said: "Sadly we have seen some tragic events taking place nationally around open water this summer, so we're proud to support World Drowning Prevention Day and to stand alongside the RNLI and other safety organisations in raising awareness of water safety.

"As a city by the sea we have access to some beautiful beaches, and we want our residents and visitors to be able to enjoy them safely. This means swimming on lifeguarded beaches, being aware of the dangers of open water, and familiarising yourself with the water safety advice from the RNLI and Royal Life Saving Society (RLSS)."

As part of this year's campaign, the Council is supporting the RNLI's 'Float to Live' message.

Nick Ayers, RNLI Regional Water Safety Lead for the North and East, said: "Every life lost to drowning is one too many. On World Drowning Prevention Day, let's commit to learning lifesaving skills, respecting the water, and looking out for one another. Together, we can save lives.

"We are proud to work with our partners across Sunderland to help everyone stay safe in, on or near to the water."

If you find yourself struggling in the water or you think you are experiencing cold water shock, remember to Float to Live:

• Tilt your head back with your ears submerged
• Relax and try to breathe normally
• Move your hands and legs to help you stay afloat'
• Once your breathing is under control, call for help or swim to safety

If you see someone in difficulty in the water, remember Phone, Float, Throw:

• Phone 999 for emergency assistance
• Tell the person in the water to stay calm and float on their back
• Throw something that floats for them to hold onto until help arrives

Visit RNLI - Royal National Lifeboat Institution - Saving Lives at Sea or www.rlss.org.uk/water-safety-information for lots of useful tips and advice on how to stay safe in the water and what to do if you do get into difficulty.