Water Safety

As the warmer months approach, our pupils have been learning vital water safety lessons focused on staying safe around London’s rivers, canals and docks.

The children explored the hidden dangers of open water, which looks tempting during a heatwave but presents severe risks. They learned about cold water shock, a physical reflex affecting even strong swimmers that causes involuntary gasping and muscle failure. London’s specific hazards were also highlighted, including the River Thames’ strong tidal currents, deep mud, hidden rubbish and pollution.

Pupils are now equipped with life-saving knowledge, including the ‘Float to Live’ technique: tilting back with ears submerged to relax until the initial shock passes. Crucially, they know that in an emergency, they must stay on land, call 999, and look for lifebuoys rather than jumping in to help.