East Lancashire firefighters demonstrated water safety and life-saving skills at Darwen Leisure Centre at the weekend.

With the recent sunny weather and high temperatures, the temptation to swim in open water can rise despite the dangers it can pose. 

On Saturday and Sunday (August 11 and 12), fire crews held a free to attend event that was open to all. 

Lucinda Heavyside, media liaison officer for the service, said: “As part of Lancashire Fire Rescue’s commitment to making Lancashire Safer, throughout the summer we are highlighting the dangers of open water to members of the public.

"As the temperatures in the North West during summer rise, so do the number of people looking for a scenic place to cool down. Whether you are a family or by yourself, the temptation to just ‘have a dip’ can all be too tempting during a hot summers’ day.”

Lucinda added: “On the day, members of the public were taught some techniques to utilise if ever found in a situation themselves or aiding someone else. The crews showed the techniques of how to use a throw bag, deploying a lifesaving ring and the technique of 'reach and throw.'

"Individuals were also shown how to make use of the notice board, tools and how to use What 3 Words correctly.”

What3Words is an application that helps track and find exact locations. The emergency services encourage this as it can save the lives of people who are lost or in danger.

The next event set to take place is at Earnsdale Reservoir, Darwen, on Saturday August 17. This involves the Swift Water Rescue Team from Darwen Fire Station going through their water safety rescue drills.

Kevin Sole, Darwen Leisure Centre manager, said: “All events that promote water safety amongst all, especially juniors, is paramount to our beliefs.

"We have great links with LFRS (Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service) and are proud to be their chosen venue to hold events like this. It strengthens our relationships and our ethos around water safety.

“We encourage and educate all swimmers around water safety who come to the centre. Alongside this we go into schools and promote water safety. Our ‘Learn to Swim’ Programme features water safety, and we have a big campaign when it is the RLSS Drowning Prevention Week.”

The sessions aim to avoid any more families suffering heartache, with past tragedies including Dylan Ramsay who drowned in a quarry in Whittle-le-Woods, near Chorley, in 2011 at the age of 13.

Dylan’s mother, Beckie, is campaigning to this day about the dangers of water safety to students and launched a petition to have it taught in schools as part of the national curriculum.