Water Safety Open Day
Friday 29th May 2026
Staying Safe on the Water This Summer
Come and join us this May half term in conjunction with Drowning Prevention Week.
What are you doing on Friday 29th May?
GWC is proud to be hosting our annual Water Safety Event, where there will be plenty to see and do.
Join us for FREE water and land based activities, as well as taking time to chat with some other providers, and also sample the delights of our BBQ, and a chance to meet and hear from some of our partners and supporters.
We will share information on how to book soon!
Please share far and wide and let us know if you would be interested or able to support what looks to be a fabulous day. Sponsorship would be welcome to enable us to keep the event as accessible as possible!
#gwc #ccc #watersafety #mayhalfterm
Drowning Prevention Week:
13-20 June 2026
Drowning Prevention Week (DPW) is one of the most extensive summer water safety campaigns across the UK and Ireland.
Drowning Prevention Week (DPW) is our biggest campaign of the year, targeting families, carers, teachers and instructors of children aged five to fifteen to educate them about water safety.
No child should drown, and with the right water safety education—such as knowledge of the Water Safety Code—accidental drownings are preventable. Drowning Prevention Week is deliberately timed ahead of the school summer holidays, when children spend more time outdoors and when vital water safety skills can help keep them safe.
Please help spread the word and encourage everyone to have the water safety conversation with children. DPW is critical in raising awareness and encouraging the public to enjoy water safely.
More about Drowning Prevention Week
International Water Safety Day:
Friday 15 May 2026
International Water Safety Day is designed to help spread global awareness of the ongoing drowning pandemic, and educate the youth in becoming safer in and around water. 15th May is a day to spread drowning awareness and water safety education by any means possible. The lack of water safety education has propelled drownings worldwide. Let’s vow to change that!
More about International Water Safety DayWater Safety: Some helpful tips to keep yourself and others safe on the water
Whilst our rivers and coastal areas are a great way to get closer to nature and nurture your passion for boating, accidents can happen. Even in calm waters or the shortest passages, weather, equipment failure, or a lack of knowledge can be fatal.
If you are heading out on the water to enjoy sailing, powerboating, canal boating or boardsports, you need to know what to do should an emergency occur. To help keep you and your loved ones safe, the RYA has collated helpful water safety advice, tips, and regulatory information. From necessary planning and preparation before setting out on the water, to safety equipment, first aid and boat maintenance, discover everything you need to know to keep you safe.
Cold Water Shock
Cold water shock can be life threatening in waters below 15 degrees. Discover more about its effects and how to minimise your risk exposure.
Lifejackets and Buoyancy Aids
Learn about lifejackets and their critical role in water safety, with buoyancy levels, life jacket types and expert advice for safe boating practices.
First Aid Afloat
Ensure safety on the water with essential first aid knowledge.
Useful Links
Previous