PEOPLE heading back to Wirral's coastal locations and inland beauty spots as lockdown restrictions ease are urged to 'be water aware' in a new campaign.

Few people would think they might become a water incident statistic.

But the fact is in the UK in 2019, more people died from accidental drowning than cyclists did on the road.

With this in mind, The National Fire Chiefs Council's (NFCC) Be Water Aware campaign runs Sunday.

Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service is taking part and encouraging people not to be complacent when spending time in and around water.

The aim is to encourage people to be safe by being aware of the risks.

Following simple advice will help reduce the 223 accidental drownings reported in 2019 and the many more injuries, which can be life-changing, following water-related incidents.

Top water safety advice includes:

  • Never swim alone in case you need help.
  • Don’t drink alcohol when undertaking water related activities; it impairs judgement and your ability to swim.
  • Avoid walking routes near water if you have been drinking alcohol.
  • Don’t dive or jump straight into open water, this can cause potentially fatal cold water shock even on the warmest day.
  • Actively supervise children in and around water - drowning can happen fast and silently.
  • If you find yourself unexpectedly in the water, don’t panic; extend your arms and legs out and float on your back until the effects of cold water shock pass.
  • Never enter the water to try to rescue someone; call 999 and ask for the fire service, if inland, and the Coastguard if you are at the coast.

Paul McGuiness, Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service's watch manager for arson and water safety, said: "As lockdown eases and the weather warms up, more people are likely to take risks around water.

"In Merseyside, we have the river, the beach and canals, all of which involve dangers such as mud flats and strong tides.

"There are also inland water risks.

"We want people to have fun but it is vital they do so safely.

"Please ensure you follow the water safety tips above when you are out and about near water."