Water safety advice ahead of hot Bank Holiday weekend
22/05/2026
Open water can contain hidden dangers
Water safety advice is being issued ahead of the Bank Holiday weekend, with hot weather forecast and that expected to attract more people to rivers, lakes and other waterways.
Oxfordshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service is warning that open water can remain dangerously cold even during warm conditions, increasing the risk of cold water shock, breathing difficulties and drowning.
We’re being urged to avoid swimming in unsupervised areas due to hidden underwater hazards and strong river currents, instead choosing supervised venues or swimming pools.
People visiting waterways should let others know their plans, carry a phone in a waterproof pouch and remember the “float to live” technique if they fall into the water unexpectedly.
Anyone spotting someone in trouble should call 999 and avoid entering the water themselves.
Deb Forder, Safety Manager for Oxfordshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Open water can look appealing, especially on warm days, but it is also very dangerous. That is why the practical advice we’re offering is so important, particularly during the hot weather when residents are more likely to be tempted to take a dip.
“Please consider things such as letting friends and family know your route near water and what time you should return. Carry a whistle and your phone in a water proof pouch to draw attention if you do get into difficulties.
“If you are submerged in water unexpectedly, your body will gasp for air meaning that you could breathe in water and hyperventilate. This over breathing can make you lightheaded and, as your brain is deprived of oxygen, you may become disoriented.
“Your body’s cold shock response, which speeds up the heart rate, may conflict with the diving response, which does the opposite, causing your heart to go into abnormal rhythms, which can cause sudden death.
“If you fall in, remember to relax, lean back and ‘float to live’ until you can control your breathing.”
Published: by the Banbury FM News Team
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