In the UK and Bristol, we are surrounded by water. The docks and river Avon is a huge part of the history of the city but also carries its risks. An average of 312 UK and Irish Citizens lose their life in an accidental drowning each year. With the summer around the corner, I wanted to write about the importance of having respect for the water as well as highlighting water safety and what the role of a lifeguard brings to society.
As part of the curriculum for Primary schools, it is expected that every child leaves Year 6 being able to swim 25meters, or one length of most swimming pools. As well as learning this important life skill is creates the expectation that water safety skills have been learnt, however currently 1/3 children attend secondary school unable to swim. This will partly be due to the effects of Covid as swimming pools were closed for a long period but also due to the lack of funding, and price rises due to the energy crisis.
The Royal Lifesaving Society (RLSS) completed a review and discovered that 73% of accidental UK drownings occurred in the absence of a professional supervisor, such as RLSS UK qualified lifeguard. The famous red shorts and yellow t-shirts can be seen at swimming pools and beaches across the UK over the summer. They educate and create safe places for all to swim.
The sun is shining and the water can look tempting, however the risks don’t vanish at the beach when the water is calm. There could be currents, rocks or changing tides. Never swim alone and always swim between the flags which denote the lifeguarded area. If you’re around water and need help, the fourth emergency service is the coastguard, which can be contacted on 999 or 112.
At the University all our lifeguards are fully qualified and attend two hours training every month, to stay
on top of their first aid knowledge and practical water skills. This job gives the opportunity to learn a range of skills, including teamwork, communication, first aid, customer service, forward thinking, responsibility planning and the list goes on. The University of Bristol swimming pool, provides National Pool Lifeguard Qualification (NPLQ) courses throughout the year, which qualifies you as a pool lifeguard and gives the opportunity to work throughout the UK and the world. If you’re qualified, and interested in becoming a lifeguard, the university pool is hiring for multiple Lifeguard Positions this summer so make sure to apply by 4 June.
Our pool will be open all summer, and you can see the latest timetable on our website now and book lane or casual swim sessions. If you’re interested in adult or children’s swimming lessons, these can also be booked now.