Emergency services and partners unite to tackle water safety across North Wales

Emergency services and partners unite to tackle water safety across North Wales

North Wales Resilience Forum

Emergency services and partner organisations from across North Wales met yesterday (Thursday, 30^th July) to discuss the recent spate of tragic water-related deaths in the region.

The meeting was organised and chaired by North Wales Police in response to growing concerns over the number of incidents and the devastating impact they have had on families, communities and emergency responders.

Representatives from a range of organisations attended – in person and online, including emergency services, local authority emergency planners and other key partners such as the Coastguard, RNLI and Mountain Rescue, to share information, identify common challenges and explore opportunities to strengthen water safety across the region.

North Wales Police facilitated the discussion – held at Police Headquarters in Colwyn Bay, bringing partners together to consider how agencies can work more closely to reduce the risk of further tragedies. The meeting focused on improving collaboration, sharing expertise and identifying practical measures to enhance prevention, education and public awareness.

Chief Superintendent Owain Llewellyn, Chair of the Outdoor Safety Partnership said: “The nine recent deaths in our lakes, rivers and sea has been deeply concerning and our thoughts are with the families, friends and communities of those affected. While many organisations are already working hard to promote water safety, by bringing partners together we can strengthen our collective approach.

“Yesterday’s meeting marked an important first step. North Wales Police has facilitated this discussion because we recognise that preventing further tragedies requires a coordinated response. Partners have committed to continuing to work together to identify opportunities to improve education, prevention and safety messaging, with the shared aim of reducing the number of water-related incident across North Wales.”

As many people continue to enjoy North Wales’s beautiful coastline, lakes and rivers during the warmer weather, agencies are asking everyone to be aware that water can present risks at any time of the year. Even places that appear calm can have hidden hazards, including cold water, strong currents and sudden changes in depth.

If you are planning to spend time in, on or around the water, please take a moment to think about your safety and the safety of those with you. Planning ahead, knowing the conditions and looking out for one another can make a real difference.

If you unexpectedly enter cold water, follow the RNLI advice and Float to Live campaign; lean back, keep your ears submerged and try to relax and control your breathing until you can call for help or swim to safety.

Further advice is available via Float To Live – What To Do If You Fall In Water

If you see someone in difficulty, do not enter the water to rescue them. Call 999 immediately and ask for the Coastguard if at the coast, or Fire and Rescue if inland. If possible, throw something that floats to help them stay above the water.

Chief Superintedent Llewellyn added: “We want everyone to enjoy everything North Wales has to offer and return home safely so we are encouraging both residents and visitors to make safety a priority whenever they're enjoying the outdoors and to take a moment to think about how they can reduce the risks.

 “Whether you're walking in the mountains, spending time on the coast, or visiting lakes and rivers, conditions can change quickly. Take time to plan ahead, check the weather and tide information, make sure you have the right equipment, and be realistic about your experience and abilities. Around water, be aware of the risks posed by strong currents and cold water shock and always keep a close eye on children.

“Everyone has a personal responsibility to make sensible decisions and look after themselves and those around them. By taking a few simple precautions, we can all help prevent avoidable incidents and ensure everyone can enjoy North Wales safely throughout the summer."

Further outdoor safety advice and information is available via: Home - AdventureSmartUK