24/06/2026
We together with all RNLI Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue National Coastwatch Institution Maritime and Coastguard Agency cannot stress this message enough.
There is currently a search & rescue between Chapel St Leonards & Ingoldmells 😞
Please, please take these awareness posts seriously,
share them,
discuss the dangers with your family
And above all please 🌊💙
Original post from our colleagues HM Coastguard Cleethorpes.
HEATWAVE - WATER SAFETY ADVICE
In the UK, water safety organisations have already reported 19 fatalities in water-related incidents this year (15 of which were children) as warmer weather draws more people to the coast, rivers, lakes, quarries, and reservoirs.
The reports from France are a stark reminder that extreme heat and water can be a deadly combination.
French authorities have confirmed that 40 people have drowned since the heatwave began, with many of the deaths occurring as people sought relief from record-breaking temperatures by swimming in rivers, lakes, and other unsupervised locations. Most of the victims were reported to be young people.
Heatwave Water Safety Advice:
Never enter water to cool off suddenly. Cold water shock can cause involuntary gasping, rapid breathing, and loss of control, even on hot days.
Avoid swimming alone. Go with others and let someone know where you are.
Use lifeguarded beaches and supervised swimming areas whenever possible.
Stay away from reservoirs, quarries, and fast-flowing rivers. Hidden currents, steep sides, and cold temperatures make them particularly dangerous.
Do not enter the water after drinking alcohol or taking drugs.
Wear a life jacket or buoyancy aid when boating, paddleboarding or participating in water sports.
Keep children under constant supervision near any body of water.
If someone gets into difficulty, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard (at the coast) or emergency services inland.
Avoid entering the water yourself unless trained to do so.
If You Fall Into Cold Water
Remember the "Float to Live" advice promoted by the UK's Royal National Lifeboat Institution:
Tilt your head back with your ears submerged.
Relax and try to control your breathing.
Move your hands gently to stay afloat.
Once breathing is under control, call for help or swim to safety if possible.
As temperatures remain high across the UK, authorities are urging people to enjoy the water safely and to treat natural bodies of water with caution, regardless of how warm the weather feels.
999 ask for Coastguard
