The Manchester Water Safety Partnership held free lifesaving training to bars and businesses in Manchester as part of the national Drowning Prevention Week (23 to 29 April 2018).
The training, which is regularly offered to waterside businesses, was delivered by Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service and supported by the Manchester Water Safety Partnership. It raises awareness amongst bar and door security staff about how to recognise and support those most at risk, as well as how to help rescue people who have got into difficulty in the water.
The aim is to help ensure customers choose safe routes home after a night out and rescue people with a throw line if they have ended up in the water.
David Wilson, Station Manager at GMFRS and chair of the Manchester Water Safety Partnership, said: “During the past four years we have rescued 25 people from rivers and canals in and around the Manchester City Centre area. Tragically eight of these were fatal incidents. Manchester is a fantastic and vibrant city and we want everyone to enjoy their time in the city, but unfortunately alcohol and drug consumption are a significant factor in many drownings. We want to urge people to take care when on a night out and always be water aware for you and your friends.”
David Baldacchino, local waterway manager with Canal & River Trust, said: “The Canal & River Trust is pleased to support Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service on this lifesaving training event which has been running for the last few years. It’s critical that staff in Manchester’s bars and clubs are given the right advice and training to help prevent people ending up in the water or to know how to assist them if they do.”
The story as featured on ITV’s Granada Reports news programme: