"This one piece of advice could save your life" - RNLI launches water safety campaign aimed at Lincolnshire beach-goers
Advice that could save the life of someone struggling in the water at Lincolnshire’s beaches and waterways has been issued by the RNLI.
The lifeboat charity launches its Float to Live campaign on May 19 and is reminding people to use the simple technique if they get into trouble in water.
The RNLI is urging people to remember the lifesaving technique as sea temperatures remain “extremely cold at this time of year”, which increases the risk of “cold-water shock”.
RNLI North and East Regional Water Safety Lead Nick Ayers said: “We know that there will be a huge amount of people visiting open water and the coast over the coming months and we want everyone to remember our Float to Live advice. Instinctively, most people who find themselves struggling in the water will begin to panic, swim, or thrash about.
“We’re urging people to ignore this instinct and remember to float: Tilt your head back, with your ears submerged. Relax and try to breathe normally. Move your hands and legs to help you stay afloat if you need to. It’s fine if your legs sink – we all float differently. By doing this, you give yourself the chance to rest and recover your breathing. Once you’ve regained control of your breathing, you can call for help or swim to safety.”
Jordan Wylie MBE, award winning adventurer and TV personality is supporting the campaign.
He said: “If you remember one thing this summer when heading to the coast or open water, make sure it’s the RNLI’s Float to Live advice. This simple technique really could save your life if you get into trouble in the water.”
In 2024, there were 193 accidental drowning fatalities in the UK – with 84% being male. Males aged 20 to 29 were the highest group for accidental drowning fatalities.
‘Float to Live’
• Tilt your head back, with your ears submerged
• Relax and try to breathe normally
• Move your hands and feet to help you stay afloat
• It’s fine if your legs sink
• Practise floating in a local pool
If you see someone else struggling in water:
• Phone 999 to get help
• Tell them to stay calm and float on their back
• Throw rescue equipment to help them float until emergency services arrive.