Firefighters are reminding the public of dangers of water in West Yorkshire as they push their Drowning Prevention and Water Safety week from April 29th- May 5th
In the last five years 279 people have been rescued from water in the last five years just in West Yorkshire and sadly, 20 people died and 74 were injured.

34% of all drowning take place during the Summer and as the warm month’s approach Fire and Rescue services prepare for water related incidents.

Now, fire services now train in a variety of different scenarios and water related incidents, including working in different temperatures and water velocity.

Bingley Fire Station Manager, Ronnie Goldwater gave his crucial advice on what to do if you find difficulty in water:

“The first thing to do is call 999, ask for fire service and ambulance. Explain to the operator where you are, and they will give you some life-saving advice over the phone. Never enter the water to try and save someone, or a pet, because you can quickly become another casualty yourself.

“Firefighters are best equipped to carry out a rescue however you can help by looking around for something, like a rope, branch or even a ball that you can throw to someone to help them stay afloat until our crews arrive. If you can, speak to the person and keep them calm by reassuring them that help is on the way.”