The Waterside Responder Scheme, launched in 2024, has trained 28 individuals from schools and businesses in water safety and continues to expand its outreach.

As warm weather encourages outdoor activities near water, the Essex County Fire and Rescue Service (ECFRS) is promoting water safety during Be Water Aware Week.

In support of this initiative, the Essex Water Safety Forum has created over 200 water safety lesson packs for primary schools, reinforcing essential safety messages for young people.

Key safety tips emphasized by ECFRS include never swimming alone, avoiding alcohol during water activities, and actively supervising children near water.

The service advises against diving into open water due to the risk of cold water shock and stresses the importance of calling emergency services instead of attempting personal rescues.

Additionally, ECFRS collaborates with Visit Essex to enhance water safety messaging for tourists at hotels and attractions, ensuring the safety of both residents and visitors in the county.

Louise Curtis, Road and Water Manager at ECFRS, underscores the service's dedication to preventing drownings through education and community engagement.

Since September 2024, ECFRS has conducted 44 water safety sessions in schools and will continue to offer free lessons and assemblies throughout the summer.

This summer, ECFRS will again support the 'Seaside Special' train events, providing water safety advice to families traveling to coastal areas.