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Drowning Prevention Charity issues
pool safety advice as funeral of drowning victim takes place
THE UK's Drowning Prevention Charity,
the Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK), has issued vital safety advice
following the funeral of Martin Winfield, who lost his life with his partner
Alan Green in their swimming pool.
Martin Winfield, aged 59, and Alan Green, aged 75, drowned in their swimming
pool at their Worcestershire home on 3 July 2015. Martin's funeral took place on
Friday, at which friends and family were asked to make donations to RLSS UK
instead of taking flowers.
And, as the tragedy highlights the possible dangers of residential swimming
pools, the charity, which is also the leader in lifeguard training in the UK,
with more than 95% of lifeguards holding an RLSS UK qualification, has warned of
the dangers but also how to enjoy pools as safely as possible.
RLSS UK Chief Executive, Di Steer, said:- "The deaths of Mr Winfield and
Mr Green are an utter tragedy and our thoughts are with the family at this
difficult time. Our deepest thanks also go to the family who have so very kindly
asked for donations to help us with our vital drowning prevention work. We
encourage people to enjoy the water, but as safely as possible and would urge
anyone who has a swimming pool in their garden to take note of our simple
advice, advice that could save lives and prevent another tragedy such as this
happening to anyone else."
RLSS UK's water safety guidance for residential pools:-
► Children and weak swimmers should be closely
supervised by an adult at all times and weak swimmers should stay within the
pool's recommended safety depths.
► Never swim alone.
► Take time to check the depth, water flow and layout
of pools.
► Control access to the pool by using suitable
fencing, secure doors / gates and pool and/or gate alarms to monitor access to
swimming pools where possible.
► Never enter the water after drinking alcohol.
► Have easy access to suitable rescue aids such as a
torpedo buoy, rope or reach pole (all available from
LifeSaversDirect.Org.UK)
► Know what to do in an emergency; learn First Aid and
CPR.
► Always advise guests to your pool of key safety
advice.
► Always follow manufacturers advice of the pool for
maintenance and safety checks.
Clare, Steve and Paul Winfield, Martin's children, have set up a JustGiving page
which reads:- "we wanted to support this fantastic charity to help prevent
accidents happening again." To donate, visit:-
JustGiving.Com. For more water safety advice or information on
the RLSS UK and it's drowning prevention work or lifesaving programmes visit:-
RLSS.Org.UK.
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