Firefighters are warning that cold water can kill as they urge the public to float to live.
County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS) has issued life-saving water safety advice as many people look to spend time near rivers, lakes, and beaches during the warmer weather.
The Service is asking the community to remember the slogan, ‘phone, float, throw,’ to help them act quickly if they see someone in trouble in the water.
- Phone 999 and ask for the fire and rescue service.
- Tell them to stay calm and float on their back.
- Throw rescue equipment to help them float.
CDDFRS Watch Manager Jonner Robinson said: “If you see someone in difficulty, do not enter the water yourself.
“This also applies to pets in distress.
“Instead, call 999 immediately and ask for the fire and rescue service.
“Explain where you are. If you are unsure of the location, look for landmarks or use the ‘what3words’ app.
“Tell the person to float on their back with their ears under the water and to use their hands to stay afloat.
“If possible, use something like a stick, rope, life ring or throw bag to help them from a safe distance.
“What3words is an excellent app to accurately pinpoint where you are so crews can find you.
“Knowing what to do can save a life.”
The advice comes during ‘Be Water Aware Week’ (April 27 to May 3), a National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) campaign to raise awareness of water safety and the dangers of accidental drowning.
Firefighters in County Durham and Darlington carried out 19 water rescues in 2025-2026 and have seen firsthand how people fail to spot the dangers beneath the surface of the water.
Watch Manager Robinson said: “Every year, we see a rise in water-related incidents during hot weather.
“What might seem like a quick way to cool off can quickly turn dangerous.
“Open water—such as rivers, reservoirs, and lakes—can be much colder than expected, even on the hottest days.
“This sudden cold shock can cause your body to gasp uncontrollably, increasing the risk of inhaling water and drowning.
“We strongly advise against jumping or diving into unknown waters.
“Hidden hazards like rocks, debris, or sudden drops can lead to serious injury.
“Even strong swimmers can struggle with currents or become exhausted in cold water.
“If you are a parent or a guardian, please keep a close eye on children at all times near water.
“It only takes a moment for an accident to happen.”
For more information about the Be Water Aware campaign, visit the NFCC website here.
For more water safety advice, visit the CDDFRS website here.
CDDFRS is working with Darlington Borough Council, Durham County Council and Durham Constabulary, as part of the separate County Durham and Darlington Open Water Safety Groups, to inform the public what they should do if they fall into water and how to help someone who is struggling.
Cllr Kyle Genner, Durham County Council Cabinet member for neighbourhoods, environment and police relations, said: “With lighter nights and warmer weather approaching, we have many lakes, rivers and beaches that may appear inviting for people wanting to take a dip.
“We want people to enjoy the weather and have fun, but we also want to make sure people are aware of the risks around open water and that they stay up to date with the guidance on what to do if someone gets into difficulty.
“When visiting Durham’s beauty spots and open water sites we encourage people to remember the ‘phone, float, throw’ advice.”
Councillor Jim Garner, Darlington Borough Council’s cabinet member for stronger communities, said: “As we look forward to the warmer weather, it is important that we all do what we can to keep ourselves and our family and friends safe when in and around water.
“We work closely with the fire and rescue service, police, and other partners as part of the Open Water Safety Group to raise awareness of the dangers and promote water safety in a bid to help reduce the number of tragedies.
“This Be Water Aware Week, we continuing to support the fire and rescue service’s efforts and echo their advice to help ensure everyone can enjoy the outdoors safely.”
Superintendent Dean Haythornthwaite, from Durham Constabulary, said: “In spring and summer, when the weather is warm, it can be tempting to cool off in rivers.
“But water that looks calm and inviting on the surface can hide hidden danger underneath, such as rocks and discarded rubbish to strong undercurrents.
“Even on the hottest of days, the water temperature can still be extremely cold.
“This can trigger cold water shock which can leave you breathless and helpless in seconds.
“Please, always remember to respect the water to keep you and those around you safe.”
