People urged to be aware of water and wildfire risks as heat-health alert is issued

Take extra care in water and do your bit to prevent wildfires – that is the message to the public from Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service with soaring temperatures expected across the county this week.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued an amber heat-health alert for the North West from 1am on Wednesday 24 June until 11pm on Thursday 25 June, and temperatures are forecast by the Met Office to reach as high as 33C in Cumbria.

Concerns about people entering lakes and rivers to cool down have prompted the service to remind the public how to stay safe in water, as well as highlighting that many wildfires are preventable by following simple guidelines.

Jennie Schamp, Area Manager for Prevention and Protection at Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service, said:

“Whether you are local to Cumbria or visiting, we want you to stay safe in our beautiful countryside.

“We know that with the sun out and temperatures soaring many people could be tempted to cool down with a dip in the water, or have a barbecue somewhere they shouldn’t.

“You should know what do if you get into difficulty before you enter the water, and have conversations with family and friends to make sure they also understand the risks and how to react in an emergency.

“Hot and dry weather also increases the risk of wildfires, many of which are caused by human behaviour and can be intense, drawn-out incidents which place a burden on emergency services – by following our advice we can all keep our county safe and picturesque.” 

Even on a hot day water can be cold, and anyone who suddenly enters cold water is at risk of cold water shock, which can lead to water entering the lungs and increase the risk of drowning, regardless of swimming ability.

The effects of cold water shock pass quite quickly and usually last between one and two minutes.

You should also be wary of hidden dangers underwater – many of our lakes have 'shelves' which can turn a gradual walk into the water into a sudden drop, or debris which could injure you.

If you get into difficulty in water, remember Float to Live:

• Tilt your head back, submerging your ears
• Relax and control your breathing
• Move your hands and legs to help you stay afloat
• Your legs may sink – that's okay, everyone floats differently
• Practise floating at a supervised location like a swimming pool

If you see someone struggling in water, remember Phone, Float, Throw:

• Phone 999 to get help
• Tell them to stay calm and float on their back
• Throw them something that floats until emergency services arrive
• Do not enter the water yourself

People are discouraged from swimming in open water including lakes, rivers and the sea unless part of an organised swimming group – find out more about local clubs here

Wildfires pose a threat to life and property – if you see one you should immediately move to a place of safety and call 999. Do not assume someone else has reported it and never attempt to tackle the fire yourself.

You can help prevent wildfires by:

• Avoiding barbecues and taking a picnic instead
• Not disposing of litter carelessly – especially cigarettes or glass bottles
• Postponing controlled burns during hot, dry spells

Even seemingly small fires can easily spread and pose a risk to life and property.

Download the free what3words smartphone app on iOS and Android before you head out to help emergency services find you quickly.