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River Safety
River and Water Safety
Durham is fortunate to have the picturesque River Wear running through the city and a beautiful coastline nearby. However, rivers and the North Sea can be far more dangerous than they appear.
Around 400 people drown in the UK each year, with more than half of these deaths occurring in inland waters such as rivers, lakes and ponds. Many incidents involve people who never intended to enter the water.
Stay safe around the river
Rivers can present unexpected hazards, particularly after dark or in poor weather. Slippery banks, uneven paths and reduced visibility can increase the risk of accidental falls into the water.
- Use well-lit routes where possible.
- Avoid riverside paths after dark.
- Take extra care during wet, icy or windy conditions.
- Stay with friends after nights out and look out for one another.
- Remember that alcohol increases the risk of accidents near water.
A hot day doesn't mean safe water
A sunny day can make the river and sea look inviting, but the River Wear and the North Sea are not always safe places to swim.
Even in warm weather, the water remains cold enough to trigger cold water shock, which can make it difficult to control your breathing and stay calm. Strong currents, sudden changes in depth, and hidden obstacles beneath the surface can quickly turn an enjoyable day into an emergency.
Water quality can also vary, particularly after periods of heavy rainfall, when pollution and bacteria may enter rivers and coastal waters. Contact with contaminated water can increase the risk of illness.
Many water-related incidents happen when these risks are underestimated. Alcohol can increase the danger further by affecting judgement, balance and reaction times, both near and in the water.
Whether it is a quick swim, paddling, or jumping in to cool off, entering the river or sea always carries risks. The safest choice is to enjoy the riverside and coastline while staying out of the water.
Float To Live
If you fall into the river or get into difficulty in the water, your instinct may be to swim hard or panic. Cold water shock can make this even harder by affecting your breathing, strength and ability to think clearly.
Instead, remember: Float to Live.
Turn onto your back, tilt your head back with your ears in the water, and focus on controlling your breathing. Move your hands gently if needed to help you stay afloat.
This simple technique gives you time for the initial shock to pass and can save your life.
Watch the RNLI video below to see how to Float to Live.
If someone is in difficulty in the water
Seeing someone struggling in the water can be alarming, and it may feel natural to try to help straight away. However, entering the water is extremely dangerous, even for strong swimmers.
If someone is in difficulty in the water:
- Call 999 immediately.
- Stay on land and do not attempt a rescue yourself.
- If possible, throw something that floats to help them.
Learn more
Water Safety | County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service