Every summer sees a spate of drownings - often in popular local swimming spots. Now a new study may help explain why some of those jumping into the water should not be doing it.
The alarming new survey results have found that, although four out of five of adults claim to be able to swim, most can't perform five critical water-safety skills.
The alarming new survey results have found that, although four out of five of adults claim to be able to swim, most can't perform five critical water-safety skills.
The skills are floating or treading water for a minute
without a flotation device; entering the water safely and being able to turn
around and return to a point of safety; rotating from your front to your back;
exiting a pool without using a ladder; and swimming 25 metres without stopping.
I fear I would be part of that majority, if I fell into freezing
cold water.
The charity STA warns that these skills could save our lives. STA is an independent charity that teaches swimming, lifesaving and survival skills.
The charity STA warns that these skills could save our lives. STA is an independent charity that teaches swimming, lifesaving and survival skills.
Dave Candler, STA President, says: "Tragically last
year we saw a high number of drownings in the UK and more needs to be done to
educate children, teenagers and adults about water safety and the dangers of
swimming in open water."
The survey also found that men aged 18 to 34 were the most
likely to say they could swim, but also have the highest drowning rate. When pressed,
over half (55%) could not perform all five skills.
"It's not just a case of learning to swim," Candler
adds, "as even the strongest swimmers can struggle in open water. Being
able to swim 25 (or even 100) metres in a warm pool in a swimming costume does
not make a person safe. If a person falls into cold water, the cold, the
current and the clothes will reduce the distance capacity by a huge percentage.
"The cold water can also result in the body going into shock - just one gulp of cold water is all it can take."
"The cold water can also result in the body going into shock - just one gulp of cold water is all it can take."
This summer, he wants everyone to "understand the risk,
and enjoy the water safely and in supervised surroundings." Almost makes
me glad to be staying at home!
by Kate Richards
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