If you see someone struggling in inland water anywhere in Kent and Medway – call 999 and ask for the fire service.

This is the message of Kent Fire and Rescue Service’s (KFRS) Make the Right Call campaign, which is returning for another year to help reduce the risk of accidental drownings.

In the last three years, crews have been sent to more than 300 water-related incidents across the county. Sadly, this figure includes 23 deaths.

While the circumstances of each emergency are different, many water-related incidents are accidental and every second counts to get the right 999 service to the scene as quickly as possible.

James Kitchen, Station Manager for water rescue at KFRS, said: “Knowing who to call in the event of a water-related emergency is crucial to getting help quickly, so remember:

“For inland water - such as in rivers, lakes or other areas of inland water - people should call 999 and ask for the fire service.

“For rescues at sea – on the coast or seaside - call 999 and ask for the coastguard.

“And give the control operator as much detail as you can, including where you are, what the person is wearing and keep them in sight until crews get there.

“The control operator could ask questions that might not seem relevant, but the information will help inform crews while they’re already on their way to the incident.

“Make the right call, and you could help save valuable time and ultimately, someone’s life.”

The campaign also aims to highlight important survival guidance for anyone who finds themselves struggling in water.

James added: “If you’re in difficulty in water, try to stay calm and float with your head titled back and ears submerged. If you need to, gently move your hands and legs to help to stay afloat.

“Spreading your arms and legs out will improve stability – and it's OK if your legs sink, everyone floats differently. Once your breathing is under control, call for help or swim to safety.”          

Areas with the highest number of water-related incidents, include Medway, Maidstone, and Folkestone and Hythe, but the advice is relevant to the whole county.

The campaign has the support of local community and riverside groups – particularly as recreational river users, runners and walkers, are most likely to spot someone in water.

Chris Gedge, one of the directors at Maidstone Riverpark parkrun, said: “Our weekly run is along the River Medway, which is a well-used route for not just runners, but also walkers and other river users, so we understand the importance of being vigilant and knowing to call 999 for the fire service if we see someone struggling in the water.

“We hope KFRS’ Make the Right Call campaign can continue to educate people on what to do in the event of an emergency and ultimately help to reduce water-related incidents. 

"Following last year's campaign, we updated our event to include a throwline with our tail walking marshal and to help raise awareness, we’ll be including the campaign’s safety advice in our pre-event safety briefings.”