London Waterways: Deadly Dangers Lurk Beneath Surface

Londoners are being urged by the London Fire Brigade (LFB) to exercise extreme caution when entering any body of water this summer, particularly children, as the current hot weather tempts people to cool off.

Assistant Commissioner Patrick Goulbourne emphasized the inherent dangers of open water, such as strong currents and concealed debris, which can prove fatal despite a calm surface. Since 2020, over 100 accidental drownings have tragically occurred across the capital, including a 13-year-old boy's death in the Royal Victoria Dock.

For those planning outdoor swims, the LFB advises doing so only in designated areas with lifeguards and safety equipment. A section of the River Thames in Kingston has been designated for swimming since May, with fire crews providing safety advice at this location.

The brigade promotes the RNLI's 'float to live' technique for those caught in difficulty, which involves controlling breathing and staying afloat. To further aid public safety, the LFB has launched an interactive water safety map detailing over 1,500 locations where firefighters have responded to water-related incidents since 2020.