Welsh Water to host World Drowning Prevention Open Day at Llysyfran Reservoir

FAMILIES are being invited to try their hand at new activities under expert guidance and find out more about the work of emergency services across Wales at the event on 25 July.

World Drowning Prevention Day is held every year on 25 July. This year, Welsh Water will host the event which is being organised by Water Safety Wales – a collaboration of around 40 organisations across Wales with an interest in water safety. There will be demonstrations showcasing the equipment and skills of emergency services, with the opportunity for the public to get hands on whilst learning about water safety.

The work being undertaken by Water Safety Wales – of which Welsh Water is an active member is to encourage safe participation in water sports that will be showcased at the event. Dyfed Powys Police, HM Coastguard, Mid/West Wales Fire Service, Welsh Air Ambulance, Welsh Ambulance Service, Outdoor Partnership, Forever 11 Charity, Swim Wales, Pembrokeshire County Council and the RNLI will be in attendance. There will be a display on the water from Mid/West Wales Fire Service.

Reduced rate Stand up Paddleboarding (SUP) taster sessions will be available with Welsh Water staff on the reservoir. Walk in slots are available but booking is advised via – https://widget.eola.co/941/activities/paddleboarding-intro-to-paddle-boarding

Both the mainstream media and social media influencers will be present to assist in spreading key safety messages to new and diverse audiences. We are expecting visits from Scarlets Rugby players as well as outdoor influencers.

Last year saw a rise in accidental drownings and other water-based tragedies. The event on World Drowning Prevention Day will also see the launch of a new report by Public Health Wales, ROSPA and Water Safety Wales highlighting the problem of drowning in children and young people in Wales.