Water Safety

This message is being sent on behalf of Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service.

Keeping safe around water – Be Water Aware

Activities in or around water can be a fun pastime, especially during warmer months. In Hertfordshire we have a number of lakes, rivers and reservoirs. Around half accidental drownings happen to people who didn’t intend to go into the water.

Between 2000 and 2025 HFRS have attended 120 water related incidents. The majority of inland water fatalities occur whilst taking part in walking, running, swimming or jumping in. Twenty-one lives were tragically claimed during this period. 

It’s important to know how to stay safe: 

1. Keep your phone charged so you can call 999 if you need help.

2. Keep clear of the water’s edge - riverbanks can be unstable after very wet or very hot weather.

3. Follow the proper pathways – they're much safer.

4. Avoid unlit routes near water at night and plan a safer path away from the water.

5. A location app on your phone (like what3words) can help emergency services know your location.

If someone gets in in trouble in the water

If you come across someone, in trouble in the water here’s what to do.

We are also encouraging pubs and entertainment venues near water to undertake our training on how to use a throwline. It could save someone’s life! To find out more, go to cpd.customerservices@hertfordshire.gov.uk

For more information on how to stay safe, visit our dedicated webpage: hertfordshire.gov.uk/watersafe