#RespectTheWater - Water safety campaign 2026

Avoiding getting into trouble:

• Rivers are great places to have fun, get close to nature and spend time with friends and family, but vigilance saves lives and water-related accidents can be avoided by knowing how to stay safe and #RespectTheWater.

• Rivers can be much colder than you expect and can contain hidden hazards as well as dangerous flows and undercurrents, particularly in and around structures such as weirs, bridges, locks and flood channels

• Take notice and follow all riverside signage and warnings signalling dangers and hazards – they are there to keep you safe

• If paddling or kayaking; wear a life jacket, carry a phone, check the weather, tell others where you are going and always paddle within your ability.

What to do if you get into trouble:

• If you get into trouble in the water, Float to Live. Lean back and use your arms and legs to help you float, then get control of your breathing before calling for help or swimming to safety.

• If you see someone else in trouble in the water, Phone – Float – Throw.

o Phone 999 to get help.

o Tell them to stay calm and float on their back.

o Throw rescue equipment to help them float until emergency services arrive.

Staying safe around water | Environment Agency

Stay Safe on the Water | Go Paddling

Phone Float Throw – Respect The Water

Safety on our Waterways | Canal & River Trust