Rivers and canals may look peaceful, but they present some of the most serious water dangers.

Hidden dangers

Hidden dangers include:

• deep pools
• hidden rocks
• strong currents

Many people who drown in inland water never intended to enter the water. Staying back from unstable edges and sticking to proper pathways is essential, as riverbanks can give way unexpectedly, especially after poor weather.

Even strong swimmers are at risk. Open water can conceal hidden hazards, fast‑moving currents beneath the surface and debris that can trap or injure. Cold water shock, an immediate physiological response that can overwhelm breathing and movement, can strike even on warm days. This means that being a competent swimmer in a swimming pool does not guarantee safety outdoors.

Emergencies at rivers often happen suddenly and in ordinary moments, such as walking home after a night out. Alcohol is a major contributor to accidental drownings, impairing balance, awareness and decision‑making. That's why it’s vital to look out for friends, steer them away from water and avoid walking routes close to the river when drinking.

If you or someone else ends up in the water unexpectedly, knowing Float to Live can save a life:

• tilt your head back and submerge your ears - this helps keep your airway clear and supports flotation
• relax and control your breathing - cold water shock can cause an involuntary gasp reflex and rapid breathing. Staying calm helps you regain control
• move your hands and legs gently to help you stay afloat - small movements can improve stability and buoyancy
• don't worry if your legs sink - everyone floats differently. A more upright position can still be effective
• practice floating in a safe, supervised location - familiarity with the technique builds confidence and increases the likelihood of using it successfully in an emergency

If someone else is in trouble, do not enter the water and instead follow the ‘call, tell, throw’ principle - call 999, tell them to float and throw something that can help them stay afloat.

Find out about new warning signs at waterfalls to help improve visitor safety and prevent future tragedies.

Canals

From the safety of a canal bank, water can look inviting. With many stretches of canals unsupervised, it’s extremely important to understand these dangers for our own and others safety.

Remember:

• it is difficult to estimate the depth of the water. It may be much deeper or shallower than expected and could cause serious harm if you jump in
• there are often no suitable places to get out of the water due to steep, slimy banks
• the ground shelves away very steeply so you can quickly become out of your depth
• reeds and other plant life can get tangled around your limbs and keep you in the water
• mud makes it difficult to walk even if you can stand up
• litter and waste such as pipes, shopping trolleys, sharp metal or broken bottles can trap your feet as well as cause injury
• there may be underwater machinery to help operate the locks, for example sluices
• you could be exposed to serious diseases such as leptospirosis (Weil’s disease)
• there may be hidden currents. Flowing water can be especially dangerous and when the locks are in operation the water can flow extremely fast

Open water swimming

Also sometimes called ‘wild’ and ‘open water’ swimming, this activity is not new but is enjoying something of a revival in the UK. Open water can be used to describe rivers, lakes, natural pools and the sea. Recreational use of water should be encouraged, but equally it is important to enjoy the activity safely. Each year, on average 19 people drown when swimming in open water.

Our top tips for safer open water swimming are to:

• join a club and gain from the experience of others
• choose a safe place to swim. At the beach, look for lifeguarded areas. Inland, avoid swimming near locks and weirs
• be visible. Use a bright, neon-coloured swim hat
• don’t stay in too long. When you get out, have warm, dry clothes available so you can dry off and return your body temperature to normal
• consider wearing a wetsuit in cold water
• not go alone and to make sure people know where you are
• plan your access and egress. Walk into the water slowly to allow your body temperature to adjust and acclimatise and plan a safe exit location in advance
• wash your hands and face with clean water or use wipes and alcohol gel, when you get out and before you eat, in case of contamination or pollution

Get more open water swimming advice provided by the National Water Safety Forum.

North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service

We joined forces with North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service to launch a series of water safety videos aimed at helping people stay safe in and around water this summer.

The videos feature North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service firefighter Toni and highlight the dangers that can be hidden beneath the surface of rivers and lakes. They encourage people to understand the risks and take simple steps to keep themselves and others safe. The videos form part of a wider effort to reduce the number of water-related incidents across North Yorkshire and raise awareness of how quickly situations can become dangerous.

The videos can be viewed on the North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service website.

And can you also watch this video where Toni talks about how to stay safe around water.