Join us at our open water safety day this half-term

Published on 17 October 2024

There will be plenty of treats - and no tricks - at Rudyard Lake this Halloween when the District Council and its partners host an open water safety day.

The event, funded by the Staffordshire Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, is taking place between 10am and 2pm on Thursday 31 October and everyone is welcome.

Come along and learn how to be safe around water in the autumn and winter months, how to spot danger, and find out more about the dangers of ice. You'll also pick up practical skills including how to put someone in the recovery position and how to throw a throwline to help someone in difficulty.

Other fun activities include water safety quizzes and games and remote control boats together with educational films and information.

Councillor Bill Cawley, Cabinet member for Communities, said: "We all know the importance of behaving safely around open water whatever the time of year. As we move into the colder months, we want to make sure people know how to keep themselves and others safe around water when the temperatures drop.

"That's why we're pleased to be hosting this safety awareness day with our partners to provide people with useful information, advice and guidance.

"There are plenty of fun and interactive activities for people of all ages so please come along and join us and let's work together to keep everyone safe this winter."

The Council will be joined by Staffordshire Fire and Rescue service who will be bringing along Wellyphant and the water rescue boat, the Royal Lifeboat Society with Perry the Lifebuoy, community first responders, Staffordshire Police and Support Staffordshire.

Staffordshire  Commissioner for Police, Fire and Rescue and Crime Ben Adams said: "Water safety education is incredibly important, particularly as the weather gets colder and ponds, lakes and canals begin to freeze over.

"Knowing what to do if you, or someone you're with, gets into trouble in the water could help to save a life.

"This event, hosted by Staffordshire Moorlands District Council and partners, is an excellent use of the funding I provide to the local Community Safety Partnership."