Open Water Rescue Training

This week, our team took part in essential Open Water Rescue and Safety Training delivered by the fantastic team at Outreach Rescue. The training was hands-on, practical, and tailored to the kinds of environments our staff and volunteers regularly work near/in; fast-flowing rivers, lakes, and wetland areas across North Wales.

This training is a crucial part of our commitment to keeping everyone safe while working to protect and improve our waterways. Working near water comes with real risks , including cold water shock, strong currents, unstable banks, and hidden obstacles — so it’s vital that our team is equipped with the knowledge and skills to manage those risks effectively.

Some key safety tips when near rivers:

• Stay back from the edge – Riverbanks can be slippery or undercut, especially after heavy rain.

• Never enter the water to help someone or retrieve equipment – Call for help and use a reach or throw method instead.

• Be aware of changing conditions – Water levels can rise quickly and currents can be stronger than they appear.

• Wear appropriate gear – Personal flotation devices (PFDs) are a must for working near or on the water.

• Don’t go alone – Always let someone know where you’re going and when you’ll be back.

Thanks again to Outreach Rescue for a brilliant and informative day. We're proud to be building a highly skilled well rounded team.