AFTER a recent survey found that 35% of people in the southwest wouldn’t know how to float if they got into trouble in the water, the RNLI have launched their ‘Float to Live’ campaign.
With the arrival of summer bringing with it a huge rise in numbers visiting the coast, the RNLI is urging people to learn and remember this “lifesaving” technique if they encounter trouble in the water.
The effects of cold water and finding yourself in difficult situations instinctively cause people to panic, gasp and try fight the water. However, the RNLI are insisting that people fight this instinct and remember to float.
Seasonal Supervisor Tim Tredant explained the technique: “We’ve just launched the ‘Float to Live’ campaign, encouraging people to – in the unlikely event they get into any difficulty – learn how to float and be safe in the water.
“To do that, you should tilt your head back and slightly submerge your ears in the water, relax and try to be normal. From there, you’re going to then move your hands and feet to stay afloat – it doesn’t matter if your legs sink, it’s just about getting that body back, trying to relax your body and raise your hand to try signal for help.
“Being upright in the water gives more chance of bobbing up and down, whereas lying flat in the water makes you more buoyant. Just relax and regain your composure, breathe normally and then signal for help.”
This comes with the RNLI’s full return to daily lifeguard cover at their sites in El Tico, Le Braye, Watersplash, Plémont, Grève de Lecq and St Brelade’s Bay from Saturday 23rd of May.
RNLI Lead Lifeguard Supervisor, Jake Elms, added: “As all Jersey beaches return to daily patrols, we want people to enjoy the coast with confidence but also with respect for the sea. Conditions can change quickly, so it’s vital to swim between the flags, listen to lifeguard advice, and never underestimate the water.
“If you do get into trouble, remember the simple but lifesaving ‘Float to Live’ technique: tilt your head back, relax your body, and control your breathing until help arrives. A calm response can make all the difference.”
As I personally joined in with a group of RNLI lifeguards for their induction and training, expect more coverage to follow.
