RNLI ‘Float to Live’ advice if you get into water trouble
The volunteer crew at Bridlington RNLI is urging people to remember the ‘Float to Live’ lifesaving technique as sea temperatures remain extremely cold at this time of year, increasing the risk of cold-water shock.
The call comes as the life-saving charity launches a new campaign.
The volunteers are reminding people to use the simple technique if they get into trouble in the water, as new research reveals that an estimated 48.97million people will be heading to the coast at least once over the summer.
Bob Taylor, Bridlington RNLI volunteer water safety officer, said: “We know that there will be a huge amount of people visiting open water and the coast over the coming months and we want everyone to remember our Float to Live advice. Instinctively, most people who find themselves struggling in the water will begin to panic, swim, or thrash about.
“We’re urging people to ignore this instinct and remember to float: Tilt your head back, with your ears submerged. Relax and try to breathe normally. Move your hands and legs to help you stay afloat if you need to. It’s fine if your legs sink – we all float differently.
“By doing this, you give yourself the chance to rest and recover your breathing. Once you’ve regained control of your breathing, you can call for help or swim to safety.”
The charity’s advice for anyone struggling in the water is Float to Live:
•Tilt your head back, with your ears submerged
•Relax and try to breathe normally
•Move your hands and feet to help you stay afloat
•It’s fine if your legs sink, we all float differently
•Practise floating in a local pool if you can.
Visit visit RNLI.org/Float for further information to go to tinyurl.com/5edtwwxf to watch the video.