(Image: NQ)
YOUNG people and families are invited to learn vital water safety skills at a free community event taking place at East Holmes Field in Ilkley on Thursday, August 27 between 3pm and 4.30pm.
The event near the suspension bridge at East Holmes Field is being organised by Bradford Council ward officers and will feature interactive demonstrations and family activities.
Firefighters from West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service will be showcasing specialist water rescue equipment and conducting in-water demonstrations and sharing life-saving advice to help people understand what to do if they get into difficulty in water and how to help others.
Visitors will be also able to learn about water safety skills from the Float to Live and Phone, Float Throw campaigns.
West Yorkshire Police will be attending to engage with the public and support the event's key safety messages.
Councillor Ian Walker, Bradford Council’s Executive Member for Neighbourhoods and Communities said: “It has been an exceptionally hot and dry summer, and people have been drawn to areas like the riverside at Ilkley to cool off. It's important that everyone understands the risks associated with open water. This event is an opportunity to learn practical and potentially life-saving advice while enjoying a free afternoon of informative family-friendly activities.”
West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, Assistant District Commander for Ilkley Chris Burke, said: "On warm summer days when people are enjoying themselves it’s easy to be caught off guard and a fun day out can quickly turn to tragedy. Anyone regardless of their age or swimming ability can get into difficulty in water, but by learning about water safety they can also help to save a life. Through our demonstrations and engagement activities, we hope to give people the knowledge and confidence to stay safe and know what to do to help themselves and others in an emergency."
Sergeant Mike Laycock from Keighley Neighbourhood Policing team said: "Working together with our partners is key to keeping communities safe. We encourage residents and visitors to come along, speak with officers and learn how everyone can play a part in staying safe around open water."
The event is free to attend and open to all ages.