FIRE and rescue services from Kent and East Sussex made a splash at Bewl Water on June 16 as two teams of firefighters hosted a Water Savvy Fun Day.
The event marked the Royal Life Saving Society’s Drowning Prevention Week and the emergency teams were joined by giant Splashpals Newfoundland dogs, who are used in sea rescue operations.
The public had the opportunity to learn lifesaving skills such as CPR and how to use a throwline – and were shown how firefighters rescue horses using harnesses.
Leanne McMahon, Group Manager for Community Safety at Kent Fire & Rescue Service, said: ‘Every year we carry out 37 water rescues on average, and we want to drive the number of people getting into trouble in water down.
‘Water safety is really important to us, and we are working hard to educate residents and visitors to the area about the dangers, and how to stay safe while still enjoying being in and around water.’
Andrea Emery, Water Safety Co-coordinator for East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service, added: ‘A drowning incident happens quickly and without warning.
‘Drowning in the UK is one of the leading causes of accidental deaths, and many people who drown had no intention of entering the water.’
PICTURE: DEEP TROUBLE: Kent and East Sussex firefighters join forces at Bewl
