NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde turned the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital (QEUH) blue for World Drowning Prevention Day on Monday 25th July to urge communities to take care around water this summer.
In the good weather, it can be tempting to take a dip into a river, loch, or pond. But water can be unpredictable and dangerous.
Open water is often deeper than it looks, and it may be cold only a few feet below the surface. This can cause cold water shock which can overwhelm you and cause you to drown, no matter your fitness level or swimming ability.
What happens when you experience cold water shock?
Cold water shock is most prevalent in bodies of water measuring 15C ° or below. The shock causes your blood vessels to close, leading to involuntary reflexes including uncontrollable breathing and an increase in your heart rate.
If you enter a body of water and experience cold water shock, follow those tips for the best chance of survival:
· Instead of fighting the shock or trying to swim, float with the current.
· Do not thrash about. Try to relax, regaining control of your breathing and steadying your heart rate.
· After between a minute and 90 seconds, call for help if you are able. Look for something that will help you exit the water.
· Even when you are out of the water, call 999 – you could have hypothermia.
If you are planning on entering the water, check the conditions, including the water temperature, first. A lifejacket or floatation device will help keep your head above water, and slowly immersing yourself in water can reduce the impact of shock.
Dr Emilia Crighton, Interim Director of Public Health at NHSGGC, said: “We are delighted to be supporting World Drowning Prevention Day, as it is important to think twice before going for a dip in Scotland’s lochs and rivers.
“The weather may be lovely and the water may look inviting, but even at the height of summer there are hidden dangers, not least from the cold. Following a few bits of advice about staying safe in water really can be a lifesaver.”
Drowning is one of the leading causes of deaths in Scotland, with 57 people accidentally drowning in Scotland in 2021. This was an increase on 39 in 2020, and the highest number since 2015. Most drownings occurred on Saturdays, and men in their 60s are most at risk.
What is World Drowning Prevention Day?
World Drowning Prevention Day was created through a United Nations (UN) resolution in 2021, to highlight the tragic impact of drowning on loved ones. Organisations including NHSGGC go blue on 25th July to raise awareness of how to stay safe in water.
For more information on World Drowning Prevention Day and how you can stay safe in the water, visit https://www.watersafetyscotland.org.uk/campaigns/world-drowning-prevention-day/.
ENDS
