Stay safe near water, visitors urged
VISITORS and residents alike are being urged to stay safe around our coasts and rivers this summer.
As children have now started the summer holidays, Swansea Council is urging families to take care near water.
Drowning is one of the main causes of death among young people and Swansea's Water Safety team joined forces with other local emergency services yesterday to highlight World Drowning Day, a global effort to raise the profile of the issue and what people can do to look after themselves near and in water.
Robert Francis-Davies said Swansea Council works closely with the RNLI which this summer will be providing lifeguards on beaches at at Caswell, Langland/Rotherslade, Three Cliffs and Port Eynon/Horton. But he said everyone has to play their part to stay safe.
Waterways such as the Tawe and marina areas in the city centre have rescue aids prominently on display in busy areas.
But Robert Francis-Davies, Cabinet Member for Investment, Regeneration and Tourism, said families and young adults - especially any who've been drinking - need to stay safe.
"World Drowning Day was the first event of its kind to draw attention to the issue. Few of us can imagine the trauma of losing a loved one to drowning. We're hoping that by lighting up Guildhall blue on Monday (25th), people will take notice, take action to find out more about staying safe which will help prevent accidents or loss of life in the water.
'We encourage people thinking of a trip to the beach to always visit one where there's a lifeguard. Anyone heading into the water should always respect the water and swim between the red and yellow flags. If you are planning to go into the water, please don't drink."
He added: "RNLI lifeguards are fully trained in all aspects of beach safety so anyone with any queries should always approach a lifeguard, who will be more than willing to help or offer advice."
Andrew Stevens, Cabinet Member for Environment and Infrastructure, said: 'The beaches we manage are among the most scenic in the UK and regularly attract many thousands of visitors throughout the year.
"During the warmer summer months thousands of people visit our beaches, particularly this summer thanks to the extended period of warm weather and sunshine.
"That's why we have worked in close partnership with expert lifeguards at the Royal National Lifeguard Institution for a number of years to ensure our beaches are covered at the busiest time."
To find out more about when the RNLI is providing cover at Swansea and Gower beaches this summer go to: www.swansea.gov.uk/article/8138/water-safety-at-the-beach
If you're a parent and want advice from the RNLI about staying safe by water this summer go to: www.rnli.org/safety
If you spot a missing water safety aid, please report it to the police or contact the water safety team on 01792 635162 or by email at water.safety@swansea.gov.uk