09/07/2026
Lancashire is set to see yet another heat wave with temperature still to increase.
Our staff have been carrying out Swift Water Rescues drills in best preparedness for what may occur.
Photo 1 is Firefighter Gervais in his Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) which helps maintain his core temperature when entering open water (Site Rowley lake Burnley & Burnley Fire station)
With temperatures rising, many people will be spending more time outdoors and visiting Lancashire’s rivers, lakes, canals, reservoirs and other open water sites. While these places can look inviting on a hot day, not all open water is safe.
Between May and August, almost half of all accidental drownings in the UK occur and the risk increases when temperatures rise.
When the average maximum temperature reaches 25°C or above:
• The risk of accidental drowning is five times higher than on cooler days.
• More people enter the water, with over half of those who drowned having been swimming.
If you’re heading near water this summer:
• Choose supervised swimming areas where possible.
• Never enter the water to help someone else, call 999 and encourage them to Float to Live.
• Learn the Float to Live technique: lie on your back, keep your head back with your ears submerged, relax, spread your arms and legs, and control your breathing.
Our teams are out across Lancashire speaking with young people and sharing vital water safety advice to help everyone stay safe this summer.
