Wilmslow firefighters supported the national Drowning Prevention and Water Safety Week from 13th to 19th April.
The crew went to the popular walking areas of Twinnies Bridge, Styal Mill and Wilmslow Leisure Centre where they talked to leisure walkers, young people and dog walkers about water safety and gave demonstrations of the techniques and equipment firefighters use when carrying out water rescues.
Crew Manager Ryan Swindells said: "We wanted to highlight to people that cooling off in rivers, canals, ponds, quarries and lakes may seem great fun, but it can have deadly consequences.
"We got a great response from the people we spoke to and felt that we had given a firm message that will hopefully keep people safe from drowning in the future."
Sadly the number of drownings starts to rise in April, often peaking in July and August, which is why the Service supported the Chief Fire Officers Association's national campaign, educating young people in particular about the dangers of taking an impromptu dip in open water.
Alex Waller, Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service's Head of Service Delivery said: "We want people to enjoy swimming, however we also want people to do it safely. Sadly, each year people die swimming in open water. Firefighters and other emergency services also risk their own safety to rescue people who get into difficulties on our waterways.
"Our advice is to only ever swim outdoors as part of an organised open water swimming club. Don't let a cooling dip be the last thing you ever do. Please follow our advice to stay safe around water."
In 2013 there were 669 water-related fatalities nationally which is two-and-a-half times the number of people that died in a house fire in 2012/13.
Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service encourages people to follow the following water safety advice:
• Only swim as part of an organised group.
• Never go swimming alone.
• Ensure you stay clear of boats and canoes to avoid accidents.
• Never drink alcohol before swimming.
• Know your limits – the cold can kill.
• Don't ignore the safety signs – it could cost you your life.
Further water safety advice can be found at www.cheshirefire.gov.uk.
