The soothing presence of blue spaces like seas, rivers, and lakes often brings relaxation, triggering the parasympathetic nervous system to help our bodies rest and digest. This calming effect explains why many people find joy and solace in water-related activities. However, this serenity can quickly turn into a life-threatening situation, highlighting the importance of water safety.
Drowning is a leading cause of accidental deaths in the UK, surpassing incidents from home fires and cycling accidents. Annually, around 400 people accidentally drown in the UK’s coastal and inland waters. Notably, 40% of these tragic incidents occur when individuals have no intention of entering the water, such as being caught off guard by a rising tide while walking along the coast or jumping in to rescue a pet.
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents reports over 100,000 water rescues each year. These rescues often result in severe injuries or post-traumatic stress disorder for survivors and their families. Data reveals that men are 80% more likely to drown than women, especially middle-aged men and teenage boys, due to their increased water exposure and riskier behaviors like swimming alone, at night, or under the influence of alcohol.
In an effort to improve water safety, a team of neuroscience and communication experts at Bournemouth University is collaborating with the Royal National Lifeboat Institution. They are using virtual reality simulations to study brain activity when immersed in water, employing emotional sensors in smart glasses to understand how fear impacts decision-making during unexpected water entries.
This cutting-edge research will be showcased at Bournemouth University in August 2024, aiming to highlight the dangers of water and gather more data. The findings suggest that men and women perceive water risks differently, with men displaying more impulsive behaviors while women tend to be more cautious.
Activities like paddleboarding and kayaking, which involve proper preparation and equipment, are generally safer compared to casual water play with inflatable toys. Unexpected water entries, such as being caught by tides or falling from a clifftop while taking a selfie, are particularly dangerous due to the lack of preparation.
Drowning fatalities often occur in inland waterways, where water can be colder and deceptively calm, hiding dangers like hidden currents, debris, or steep and slippery banks. Cold water shock, a sudden reaction to cold water, can heighten alertness and adrenaline, causing a person to gasp, hold their breath, and swim frantically until exhaustion. Overcoming this instinct is crucial for survival.
Experts recommend following these five simple (“float to live”) steps for water safety if you unexpectedly fall into deep water:
- Keep your head back with your ears submerged to keep your airways open.
- Resist the urge to panic, try to relax, and breathe normally.
- Gently paddle your hands to aid in staying afloat.
- Don’t worry if your legs sink; buoyancy varies for everyone.
- Spread your arms and legs to maintain stability in the water.
If you spot someone in distress, do not jump in to rescue them. Instead, shout the “float to live” steps and immediately call emergency services for the coastguard.
Whether planning a dip, a coastal stroll, or a canal run, understanding these survival tips can mean the difference between a safe outing and a tragic accident.
For more information on water safety and the latest research, visit Bournemouth University’s upcoming exhibition or contact the Royal National Lifeboat Institution. Stay safe and remember: float to live.
