With many schools closing early for the rest of the week, it is important that you speak with your children and young people about water safety.
The warmer weather can tempt children and young people to cool off in rivers, reservoirs and lakes, but even in hot weather most water remains below 16°C, which can cause cold water shock and lead to drowning.
Despite its calm surface, open water can have strong currents, hidden debris, slippery edges, and sudden drops in depth - all of which could prove fatal.
You must only swim in designated areas and ensure that lifeguards and safety equipment are present.
Take a look at our water safety map (linked below), showing the areas we have attended water-related incidents since 2020. This totals over 1,500 separate callouts and, sadly, 112 accidental drownings.
Our full water safety information is also available on the 'Safety' area of our website. https://www.london-fire.gov.uk/safety/water-safety/water-safety-map/
Source: Nextdoor
