31 lives lost around region’s coasts

COASTAL fatality figures released today by the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) show 31 people lost their lives around the north England coasts last year – but 61 per cent didn’t even set out to enter the water.
The number of near-misses was even higher, with the RNLI’s lifeboat crews and lifeguards in the region saving 89 lives last year.
The figures are revealed as the RNLI launches a national drowning prevention campaign, Respect the Water – and underline the importance of the work of the charity’s Warrington branch.
The 30-strong RNLI Warrington branch raises money in the town and two years ago was voted the “branch of the year” after raising a staggering £16,000 in six months.
The Respect the Water campaign warns people that our coastlines and waters can be dangerously unpredictable.
The charity is releasing two hard-hitting campaign films, which will be shown in cinemas across the UK and Ireland from tomorrow.
Five-year figures show an average of 24 people die around the north England coasts each year.
Of the 121 people who died over the past five years, more than half (51 per cent) were taking part in activities like walking, running, climbing and boating and were, therefore, unlikely to have intended to enter the water.
Slips and falls while walking and running contributed to the most coastal deaths in the region, accounting for 31 per cent.
Swimming, jumping in and general leisure use accounted for 14 per cent of coastal fatalities over the five years, commercial activity nine per cent and angling seven per cent.
The RNLI is aiming to halve the number of coastal deaths by 2024. Respect the Water, is warning people – particularly adult men – to be aware of the dangers of the coastline, as well as the water itself.
Michael Avril, RNLI community incident reduction manager for the north of England, said: “Most people heading for a stroll or run along the coastline probably wouldn’t consider a drowning prevention campaign like this relevant to them as they have no plans at all to enter the water. We’re warning people that if they’re going near the water, whatever their activity, they could be at risk and they need to take care. Unexpected dangers like slippery rocks, sudden waves or unstable ground can catch anyone out.
“The water might look inviting, but it can be dangerously unpredictable, with hazards which can be fatal if not respected. Cold water is a major risk for anyone who ends up in the water – intentionally or otherwise. The body’s reaction to sudden immersion in cold water will trigger uncontrollable gasping, which can draw water into the lungs and lead to drowning. The coldness will also gradually shut down the use of limbs, making it very difficult even for strong swimmers to stay afloat.
“Currents under the surface can overwhelm even the strongest swimmers. They can drag people out of their depth so quickly, and if you try to swim against them you’ll become exhausted.
“We want people to enjoy the water but to make sure they respect it. On average 24 lives are lost around the north of England coast each year but many of these losses could be avoided if people acknowledge the dangers and follow some basic safety advice.”
Those interested in finding out more about the dangers of the coast can visit the Respect the Water website and see for themselves at www.rnli.org/respectthewater or search #RespectTheWater on social media.