Manchester firefighters make a splash to spread summer safety advice
Following the rescue of a teenager from a canal in Middleton in June, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) seized the opportunity to promote its prevention work and Safe4Summer campaign.
The 13-year-old was rescued from a canal lock after falling into the water during the upturn in temperature on the evening of Sunday, June 5.
The following day, members of the Service’s Water Incident Unit, based at Eccles Community Fire Station, appeared live on national television as BBC Breakfast filmed three dramatic water rescue demonstrations at Salford Quays.
Assistant County Fire Officer Geoff Harris delivered water safety messages and other prevention advice during an interview with host Louise Minchin.
The programme also featured an interview with GMFRS’ water safety champion Becki Ramsay, whose 13-year-old son Dylan tragically drowned swimming in open water in 2011.
With over a million viewers each morning, BBC Breakfast provided the Service with a fantastic opportunity to reach the public with safety messages that resonate across the country.
Meanwhile, representatives from GMFRS and Greater Manchester Police (GMP) went to the boy’s school to reassurance pupils who were affected by the incident. They delivered water safety and other Safe4Summer messages to help the pupils have an enjoyable summer.
Safe4Summer is a multi-agency campaign that delivers information and advice to help young people in particular stay safe and out of trouble during the school holidays.
GMFRS’ community safety team also visited Cardinal Langley, Middleton Technology College and Newman College to provide advice, as all are situated close to the Middleton Canal.
Posters highlighting water safety messages were delivered to local shops and businesses in the area, while volunteers worked in conjunction with GMP to deliver advice at Dovestone Reservoir – a popular destination during summer weekends.
Lesley Allen, GMFRS’ Other Emergencies Co-ordinator, said: “GMFRS are keen to get into as many primary and secondary schools every year to talk to students about how to enjoy outdoor activities safely. We were able to speak to more than 250 pupils at Middleton Tech and their attention was total.
“We encourage young people to join in with safely organised water sports and activities with proper equipment and lifeguards on hand rather than be just tempted to take a dip alone or with friends.”