West Kirby RNLI is holding a water safety event to mark World Drowning Prevention Day on Friday 25 July.
From 12pm to 4pm they will be under the RNLI gazebo on the north end of West Kirby Marine Lake, by the Watersports Centre.
There will be a float mat to lie on to demonstrate ‘Float to Live’, a method of increasing safety when experiencing cold water shock, as well as a focus on tidal cut off issues with reference to the area’s local geography and walking to Hilbre Island.
RNLI Lifeguards, who are already stationed on the beach, from 10am to 6pm every day until 7 September, will also join for a portion of the event.
At 5.50pm, members of the public are invited to gather opposite the lifeboat station gates near the old baths to watch West Kirby’s D class lifeboat launch onto the lake. There will be crew member commentary and explanation of the lifeboat exercise from 6pm until 7pm.
Graeme Skinner, West Kirby RNLI Water Safety Officer, said: “World Drowning Prevention Day was declared through the UN General Assembly Resolution and is held annually on 25 July.
“This global advocacy event serves as an opportunity to highlight the tragic and profound impact of drowning on families and communities and offer lifesaving solutions to prevent it.
“Globally an estimated 236,000 people drown every year, and drowning is among the ten leading causes of death for children aged 5-14 years.
“The best way to enjoy the water is to be safe. We look forward to seeing many of you on 25 July.”
Photo credit: West Kirby RNLI/David Edwards
