Don’t let a winter wonderland become a nightmare

The colder weather is fast approaching and while snow and ice may help create a picturesque winter wonderland, we need to beware of the dangers lurking near water that could turn it into a nightmare.

Sadly, drownings are not just a summer hazard, and you need to beware of the dangers in and around water during the colder months too.

It’s easy to slip and fall into the water, especially if you’ve had a few drinks, or you could get into difficulty if you go to the aid of someone else.

Children and pets are particularly at risk as they may be tempted to play on the ice formed on open water, which may not be thick enough to bear their weight. Adults can then find themselves at risk when attempting to save them.

Darlington’s Open Water Safety Group is urging parents and pet owners to take extra care when out and about and is supporting the Royal Life Saving Society UK’s (RLSS UK) national Don’t Drink and Drown campaign.

Aimed at 18-25-year-olds, the Don’t Drink and Drown campaign encourages individuals to #BeAMate and take responsibility for their friends when under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, helping them avoid dangerous routes by water and return home safely. The RLSS UK is runing the campaign from 12-20 December 2024.

Cllr Jim Garner, our cabinet member for stronger communities, said: “Nationally around 46% of accidental drownings among 18-25-year-olds involve alcohol and/or drugs and the RLSS UK campaign aims to reduce the number of tragedies among our young people.

“We’d also urge everyone to take extra care when they’re out and about and follow a few simple tips to keep yourself and others safe.”

Inspector Matt Plumb, from Darlington Neighbourhood Police Team added: “This is an extremely important message as the temperatures begin to plummet during the winter months.

“Water that looks calm on the surface can hide hidden dangers underneath, such as rocks and discarded rubbish to strong undercurrents. It also may seem tempting to walk on ice formed on open water, but ice is often not as thick as it appears and this may cause you to fall in.

“The extremely cold-water temperatures can also trigger cold water shock, which can leave you breathless and helpless in seconds.

“Please, always remember to respect the water to keep you and those around you safe.”

Allan Hobson, station manager of community safety at County Durham and Darlington Fire & Rescue Service, said: “Every year people lose their life by drowning after or during a night out.

“We’re reminding everyone planning to enjoy an alcoholic drink to steer clear of walking near water and make sure they plan their journey home.

“If you see someone in difficulty in the water, call 999 and ask for the fire service. Explain where you are. If you are unsure of the location, look for landmarks or use the ‘what3words’ app.

“Follow the Talk, Reach, Throw guidance: Talk - tell the person in the water to float on their back; Reach - even if there is no lifesaving equipment, look at what else you can use – even a tree branch can help; Throw them something that floats such as lifebelts or throw bags, if nearby. If they are attached to a rope, make sure you hold or secure the end so you can pull the person in.

“Finally, please do not attempt to enter the water and recue the person as you may also become a casualty in need of rescue. Stay safe and have a great Christmas.” 

Matt Croxall, charity director at RLSS UK, added: “As we officially head into the colder months, these statistics highlight the need to continue raising awareness among young people in particular, around the dangers of drinking alcohol and being near water. 

“We hope that our campaign helps encourage people to stay safe, be responsible and look out for one another after a night out – taking that extra step to make sure mates get home safe. The December campaign seeks to encourage people to enjoy the festivities of Christmas and get merry together, but to do so responsibly and stay away from the water.”  

Winter water safety tips:

• Stay away from the edges of rivers and ponds, they may be slippery! And wear footwear with a good grip.
• Take extra care if you’re walking home after a night out – don’t drink and drown! Stick to well-lit areas. Look out for your friends and help them get home safely.
• Never walk onto ice covered ponds or rivers, you don’t know if it will support you.
• Keep children within reach and teach them not to go onto ice.
• If someone falls in water don’t go in after them. Half of all ice-related drownings involve the attempted rescue of someone else.
• If someone falls in, ring 999 immediately.  Try to reach them from the safety of the bank using a piece of clothing, a pole, a long branch or throw them a life ring or throw line.
• Keep dogs on leads when you’re near water and don’t throw sticks or toys into water for them to chase.
• If you fall in, stay calm, float on your back and call for help.

Remember to download the What3words app so if you need to call 999 in an emergency, you can pinpoint your location so they can attend more quickly. Simply read the three words to the 999 service when making the call.

For more information about water safety visit www.ddfire.gov.uk/water-safety  or the Royal Life Saving Society UK website at www.rlss.org.uk

You can also find other useful information about planning ahead to get home safe after a night out at www.enjoydarlington.co.uk/stay-safe