Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service is urging people to take extra care around water as temperatures rise, warning that accidental drownings remain a persistent and preventable risk.

The appeal came as part of the National Fire Chiefs Council’s annual #BeWaterAware campaign, which highlights the dangers associated with rivers, lakes, reservoirs and other open water.

Figures show that between 2019 and 2024, 1,602 people died in accidental drownings across the UK. More than half of these incidents happened in inland waters, and in many cases people had not intended to enter the water at all, with slips, trips and falls often the cause.

The data also shows that 82 per cent of those who died were men, prompting renewed calls for awareness among those most at risk.

The fire service warns that even in warm weather, open water can remain dangerously cold. Sudden immersion can lead to cold water shock, causing gasping, panic and a rapid loss of swimming ability.

Gavin Ellis, from the National Fire Chiefs Council, said: “Most people would be shocked to hear the number of lives lost simply because people were spending time in and around water. These deaths are preventable, so we ask everyone to Be Water Aware.”

Safety advice includes staying away from the edge of water where possible, particularly in poor weather, darkness or on slippery ground. People are also urged to avoid alcohol near open water.

The fire service stresses that the public should never enter the water to try to rescue someone else or an animal. Instead, they should call 999 immediately.

If it is safe to do so, the “Call, Tell, Throw” approach should be used. Call 999, tell the person in difficulty to float on their back to conserve energy, and throw something that floats, such as a lifebuoy.