As warmer weather approaches, a new campaign – “Be Water Smart” – has been launched by Cambridgeshire County Council to support families to enjoy water safely this summer.
Designed to equip parents with important lifesaving knowledge, “Be Water Smart” aims to raise awareness of the potential risks of swimming in open water, like lakes and rivers, and the simple, proactive steps parents can take to ensure children have the right skills and knowledge they need to stay safe around water.
With large areas of Cambridgeshire covered by inland water, there are some great opportunities for fun and safe experiences on the county’s waterways – however unseen hazards, such as cold water shock, strong currents, and hidden rubbish and debris, can cause difficulties for even strong swimmers.
Through sharing useful tips and resources, the campaign will remind families how they can stay safe in, on and around water, and help empower parents to take charge of their family’s water safety education.
This will include encouraging parents to familiarise themselves with the Water Safety Code (stop and think, stay together, float and call 999 in the UK or 112 if abroad) and how to teach this to children to ensure they know what to do if they find themselves in the water unexpectedly.
The council’s “Be Water Smart” campaign will focus on:
- How families can stay safe together in and around water.
- What to do if you or your child gets into difficulties in the water or comes across someone else who is in trouble.
- Raising awareness of the risks associated with swimming in open water, such as cold water shock and hidden dangers under the water.
- Helpful tips for enjoying the water safely this summer, including places where families can have fun in the water in a safe and controlled environment.
- Water safety activities and resources families can complete together.
Families will also have the chance to learn essential water safety skills at Grafham Water Centre’s free open day on Friday 29 May. Whether you want to feel more confident around water or learn water safety tips that could help save lives, there will be the opportunity to meet a variety of organisations and ask questions whilst taking part in fun activities, including sailing and powerboating.
You can book your free pass on the Grafham Water Centre website.
Councillor Edna Murphy, Chair of the Children and Young People Committee at Cambridgeshire County Council said: “Tragically drowning claims many lives each year – and these are often of children and young people who aren’t aware of the risks involved when swimming in open water like lakes and rivers.
“Many deaths could be prevented, which is why we’re asking everyone to Be Water Smart.
“We’re committed to giving children and young people the best start in life and learning to be safe near water is such an important part of a child’s education. As we approach the summer, it's crucial that parents take the time to equip themselves with the right water safety knowledge and tools – starting with important conversations with their children ahead of the school holidays to ensure as many people as possible can enjoy water safely.”
As part of the campaign, families will be able to access a range of practical advice and resources via the council’s website and social media channels. This includes water safety information, tips for teaching children water safety skills, and printable resources and activities to complete with children.
For more information visit www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/be-water-smart or follow our campaign on social media, using the hashtag #BeWaterSmart.
