Think carefully before open water swimming in heatwave, says LFB

Londoners have been urged to “think carefully” before swimming in waterways as the capital experiences a “mini-heatwave”, the London Fire Brigade (LFB) said.

Yellow heat health alerts are in place for most of England this week, as daytime temperatures look set to reach 30C (86F).

The brigade said it has responded to more than 30 incidents involving people in the water in 2024, with concerns this number could spike over the course of this week.

Teenage boys are “overrepresented” in UK drowning statistics and the end of GCSE exams could see more people in the water, a LFB spokesperson said.

Craig Carter, LFB’s assistant commissioner for prevention and protection, said: “While it might be tempting to go into water to cool off from the heat, we’re asking people to think carefully.

“Despite the warm weather, London’s waterways are still cold enough to put a person into cold water shock which can affect anybody, no matter their fitness.”

About 60% of accidental drownings occur in the UK’s inland waterways, such as rivers, canals, lakes and reservoirs, according to data from the National Water Safety Forum (NWSF).

The LFB has also issued a warning around the fire risks posed by barbeques as the mercury climbs.

“We know many Londoners will want to enjoy the nice weather by visiting a park or open space,” Mr Carter said. “However, we’re asking people not to take disposable barbecues with them as they can cause grass fires, especially in hot weather when the ground is dry.”

He said wildfires can be “unpredictable” and “spread quickly”.

July 2022 saw the LFB experience one of its “busiest days in the modern firefighting era” as it tackled wildfires.

The LFB has issued the following water and fire safety advice:

Water safety

• Do not go into the water if someone else is in trouble. Call 999, tell them to float
• Look for nearby public rescue equipment. If not available, throw something that floats
• Never drink alcohol and then go for a swim or attempt to jump into water
• Avoid walking/running very close to water on your own or late at night

Fire safety

• Do not drop cigarettes or anything that is burning on dry ground
• Do not have barbecues in parks and public spaces
• Do not barbecue on balconies; the wind may carry smouldering ash towards grassland
• Be aware that children, animals, balls or anything else may knock over barbecues, increasing the risk of grass fires, especially when in busy parks or public spaces