Thinking of taking the dog for a walk? Nearly half the people who drowned in 2020 had no intention of entering the water.
Make sure you and your dog are safe when taking a walk.
- Consider buying floatation vests - brightly coloured ones are best to you can see where your dogs is, and many have handles which make it easier for emergency services to carry out a rescue.
- Try to avoid throwing sticks or balls near water for dogs - they will go after it if they think you want it back, even if you've thrown it too far or into dangerous water.
- Most water-related incidents that occur as a result of dog walking are as a result of people entering the water to tray and save a dog. The dog usually manages to scramble out, however the outcome can be much more serious for the owner.
- Never go in the water to rescue someone, the chances are you’ll get into trouble yourself and the effects of cold water shock are sudden and completely debilitating.
- If you see someone in trouble, the first thing to do is call for help - straightaway. Call 999. If you are near the coast ask for the coastguard and ambulance. If you are inland ask for fire service and ambulance. The emergency services will need to know where you are. Accurate information saves time. Follow our simple advice to help ensure you and your family stay safe.
- If your dog loves the water keep it on a lead and make sure you have control to prevent it jumping into hazardous or unsafe areas
- Even dogs that like swimming can usually only swim for short bursts - keep an eye on your dog and don't let it enter the water if it's older or tired
- Remember the wet riverbanks, steep edges or jagged rocks can make it hard for a dog to scramble out and be a slip risk for owners
- Don't lean into the water and try and lift your dog out - you can topple in
- Dogs can suffer the effects of cold water shock too
- If your dog has struggled in the water it may have inhaled water and should see a vet as dogs can drown after the event if water has entered the lungs