PEOPLE are being told to stay safe when they are near water this summer. 

Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service pointed out that the most recent National Drowning Report revealed that 46 per cent more children accidentally drowned in the UK in 2022. 

As part of Drowning Prevention Week, firefighters joined the RLSS at Worcester Rowing Club with children from Pitmaston Primary School to demonstrate how to stay safe near water. 

Station commander John Elsworth, of Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service Prevention Department, said: "There are three key messages to remember when you’re near water.

“Make sure you are aware of your surroundings; stay together and if you see someone in the water then remember to call, tell and throw.

“Call 999; tell the person in the water to lie on their back with their arms and legs out as that will help them to save energy and will help to keep their head above water; and throw anything to hand which floats to the person in the water as that in turn will help to keep them afloat.”