Brendon Prince: Water Safety knowledge test

Did you know that 240,000 people drown on planet earth every year?  

In the UK, there were a staggering 597 water related deaths in 2022, with hundreds more receiving life changing injuries, and tens of thousands more needing to be rescued.  As a society we promote adventure, blue space thinking, the need to explore and get out into the wild world but we don’t give the essential tools of knowledge to stay safe.  

Through the local charity Above Water (charity number 1174593), I have visited and spoken with students from over 60 schools in the South West over the last few months (primary and secondary).  In over 50 per cent of those schools neither swimming nor water safety was being taught. How can we expect our children to live a happy and healthy life in our coastal community without this essential lifesaving knowledge?  Coastal water safety is a critical aspect of enjoying the beautiful and dynamic environment that the South Devon Coast offers. Even our very own world-famous mystery novelist Agatha Christie, known for her captivating tales of intrigue and suspense, was a surfer and an advocate for water safety. Having almost lost her own life as a 13 yr old trying to rescue her nephew, she recognized the importance of understanding and respecting its potential dangers. 

Have a look at these 10 questions on coastal water safety. As a Torbay resident, with the coast on your doorstep and living on a very small island, can you answer them? Why not test your family or friends? NO prizes for 10 out or 10 but a warm glow of confidence that you know how to keep yourself and your family safe at the coast.

1. What is the first thing you should do when you visit the seaside?

Hundreds of people drown in the UK every year. Most had no intention of actually going into the water. The following key words should be followed EVERYTIME you visit the coast for a walk, run or swim. The water safety charity Above Water calls this the Blue Cross Code-

• STOP 

Take a moment to understand your environment- Check water movement, weather, water temp, your kit.

• LOOK 

Look for any danger, read signage, ALWAYS watch children.

• LISTEN 

Talk to locals, lifeguards, other water users- ASK for advice.

• FLOAT 

If you get into trouble, DON’T PANIC, FLOAT on your back!

2. What is a RIP current? How can you identify one? How can you escape one?

Sorry but this question is three in one! A RIP current (not RIP tide - this is a song by Vance Joy!) is a natural water flow back out to sea after wave action has brought the water onto the beach.  It can occur on any beach where the waves are over knee height.  It’s a narrow, fast-moving channel of water flowing from the shore to deeper water but only as far as the breaking waves. To identify a RIP current, look for differences in water colour, seaweed, or debris moving seaward. Avoid swimming in these areas and teach others how to recognise and stay out of RIP currents. If caught in a RIP current, remain calm and don't swim against it. Swim parallel to the shore until you're out of the current, then swim at an angle back to the beach. Floating on your back will save you energy and is perfect position when signalling for help.

3. What is cold water shock, and why is it dangerous?

Cold water shock occurs when the body is suddenly immersed in cold water (this is UK waters for most of the year) leading to an involuntary gasp reflex. This can result in water inhalation, panic, and drowning. Understanding the risks of cold-water shock is crucial for anyone participating in water activities, especially in colder climates.

4. How can you protect yourself from cold water shock?

Wear appropriate clothing, such as wetsuits, dry suits. Take time to acclimate to the water temperature gradually, allowing your body to adjust. If you are taken by the effects, float on your back and control your breathing, the shock will only last up to a minute before your breathing is back to normal.

5. What are the basics of self-rescue in the water

Self-rescue techniques include remaining calm, don’t panic, conserving energy by floating on your back, use anything that floats to help. Treading water or using a backstroke can help you stay afloat while waiting for assistance or devising an escape plan.

6. How can you safely rescue someone in distress in the water?

Reach or throw, don't go. Avoid entering the water yourself, as this can put both you and the person in distress at greater risk. Use reaching or throwing objects like a rescue tube, life jacket, or a long pole to help them stay afloat and/or bring them to shore.

7. What steps should you take when calling for help in a coastal emergency?

Dial 999 emergency services immediately if you see someone in difficulty on the water, ask for COASTGUARD if on the coast or FIRE & RESCUE if inland.  Try and provide accurate information about the location, number of people involved, and the nature of the emergency. Stay on the line and follow any instructions given by the call handler.

8. What are the dangers of offshore winds in coastal areas?

Offshore winds blow from the land toward the sea and can push you out to sea. Always check weather conditions before heading into the water and be cautious when strong offshore winds are present; you may not feel the strength of the wind on the beach but experience it when it is too late on the water. Always carry a method of communication with you on the water so if you ever get into trouble, you can call for help.

9. Why is it important to be aware of tide times?

Tidal changes can affect water depth and currents. Always be aware of the tide schedule, especially during activities like beachcombing or exploring tidal pools. It is easy to become stranded and even cut off by the rising tide. If cut off, never try to swim, call for help and wait to be rescued.

10. How can education and awareness improve coastal water safety?

At a time when swimming in schools is at an all-time low, promoting water safety through on land educational programs and community awareness is essential.  Above Water started a national campaign in November, starting in the South West and sponsored by generous donations from McCarthy Contracting & Development Ltd, South West Water, Vertu Land Rover Exeter.  The campaign trains young leader ambassadors from each school.  These young leaders then have the knowledge and resources to teach their peers water safety and drowning prevention techniques across their own school.

With 9 million school age students in the UK, this is the largest practical solution to annual training for the children of this island nation. Research shows that students who receive a minimum of 45 minutes training each year in water safety knowledge and practical drowning prevention techniques not only have a greater survival chance but also take these skills into a healthier and happier adulthood.

If you or your family didn’t get 10 out or 10 then perhaps some training is needed.  You or your business can support the work of Above Water, please get in contact info@abovewater.org  or check out the website for more information www.abovewater.org

By understanding RIP currents, cold water shock, self-rescue techniques, and other crucial aspects of coastal water safety, we can enjoy the ocean responsibly and ensure a safer experience for ourselves and others. Agatha Christie's love for our Bay, the sea, and her advocacy for water safety reminds us all of the importance of respecting the sea.