Two simple messages cover most emergencies: Float to Live if it’s you, and Phone, Float, Throw if it’s someone else.
A couple of minutes that could save a life. Please watch, and share it with someone who needs to see it.
Fewer people are on the river today, but cold water shock is more likely to catch someone out. If you go in unexpectedly: float first, and let the gasp pass before you try to swim.
Cold water — even on a warm day — causes an involuntary gasp and rapid breathing the moment you go in. It’s what catches strong swimmers out.
Lean back, push your stomach up, extend your arms and legs. Floating buys time — for the shock to pass, and for help to reach you.
Remember Phone Float Throw — it could save their life. You can help without entering the water.
Phone 999 to get help
Tell them to stay calm and float on their back
Throw rescue equipment to help them float until emergency services arrive
Part of the National Water Safety Forum’s #RespectTheWater campaign — posters & resources.
Cold water shock and panic can overwhelm a rescuer as fast as the person they’re trying to save, turning one casualty into two. Let the phone call, the floating and the throw do the work while help is on its way.
We deliver this in person, free of charge, to schools, clubs and community groups.
