The hot weather continues across the county and schools are breaking up for the summer soon. Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service is therefore urging parents to speak to their children about the potential dangers of swimming in open water and check they know what to do should they get into difficulty. The advice comes following several drownings nationally already this year. 
Swimming in canals, rivers and lakes can be dangerous due to hidden currents and unknown hazards, swimming in supervised pools is much safer.  
If you get into trouble always float on your back and call for help.
If you see someone struggling in the water don’t attempt to rescue them yourself. Call 999. 
The What3Words app can be used to report a precise location in an emergency, which can aid a quicker response. If your child has a mobile phone get them to download it from here: Download the free what3words app | what3words
For more safety advice, visit our website here:      https://www.staffordshirefire.gov.uk/your-safety/safety-outside/water-safety/