Council Supports World Drowning Prevention Day
Telford and Wrekin Council is supporting the World Drowning Prevention Day and encouraging everyone in the borough to take advantage of the many opportunities to learn and practice swimming.
There were more than 630 water-related deaths in the UK in 2020 and the council works closely with Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service to ensure throwline safety boards are near the River Severn in Ironbridge and the town park, providing essential water rescue equipment, available for use by the public.
Councillor Kelly Middleton (Labour), Cabinet Member for Leisure, Public Health and Well-Being, Equalities and Partnerships said: “The pandemic has had a massive impact on young people’s ability to access swimming for fun and also lessons, both of which could ultimately save a life.
“This is one of the many reasons why swimming is such a life skill and why we will be investing an extra £1 million into leisure and events as a part of a wider £16 million commitment to support the borough to recover from the COVID pandemic.”
A new Youth Health & Fitness Membership will also be launched to give young people aged 16-19 access to Telford & Wrekin’s aspirations health and fitness facilities for just £19.99 per month with no minimum term contract or joining fee.
People are encouraged to share drowning prevention and water safety advice with their families, friends and colleagues; sign up for swimming or water safety lessons; or support local drowning prevention charities and groups.
People can also swim in one of the council’s four, 25 metre length pools, where adults aged under 25 can swim for free and people aged over 50, can pay just £1 while during the school holidays children can swim for £1 too.
People can find out more about swimming offers or new youth membership at their nearest leisure centre. Visit the website for more information www.telfordandwrekinleisure.co.uk
Watch this instruction video should you ever need to use a throwline and visit to learn more about drowning prevention and keeping safe by the water.
