WDH is working alongside West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service to raise water safety awareness this summer.
The fire service joined our team at a water safety awareness event near Calder Crescent to demonstrate throw lines to residents and to talk about the dangers of open water. This comes after two new throw lines and signs were unveiled along the River Calder near our homes.
WDH has sponsored the throw lines and the signs show how to correctly use the lifesaving equipment. The fire service attended a number of events over the weekend to spread awareness across the area.
Jimmy Fitt, Assistant District Commander Wakefield, at West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We have seen some tragic incidents over the last few years, and we want everyone to keep themselves, their friends and families safe around the open water this summer.
"We urge everyone not to enter the water, and remember our call, tell, throw advice if they see someone in difficulty –
- Call - If you see someone in difficulty in the water, call 999 and ask for the fire service.
- Tell - Them help is coming and tell them the float to live advice - stay calm, lean back, extend your arms and legs.
- Throw - Throw them something that floats.
“We have worked in partnership with WDH to install two new Water Safety Equipment Signs on the River Calder, close to Calder Crescent. We hope the signs will never be needed, but they are there for our communities to use if they see someone in difficulty in the water.
“Our crews will be out and about over the summer months, giving water safety advice and offering throwline training. If your local group would like a visit, please contact us via our social media channels.
“We hope everyone has a safe and happy summer holidays. If anyone would like any further advice, please visit our website www.wyfs.co.uk “
WDH Estate Manager Kathryn McCracken said: “It is crucial that everyone remembers the fire service’s advice if they see someone in difficulty in the water. We’re keen to reinforce this and to support new signs and throwlines along the River Calder near our homes.
“With the summer holidays now here and temperatures rising, we all know that open water can be tempting. We echo advice not to enter the water no matter how strong a swimmer you think are.
“Recent tragic events within our area show us the catastrophic consequences of taking risks in the water. If you see someone in difficulty, remember to Call, Tell and Throw.”
