RNLI urges ‘Float to Live’ if you’re struggling in the water

The RNLI is urging people to remember a crucial piece of advice, which could help save your life if you are struggling in the water.

That advice is ‘Float to Live’ – and it comes less than two weeks after teenage friends, Emmanuel Familola (16) and Matt Sibanda (18), were drowned after getting into difficulty in the water off Buncrana.

The RNLI charity, which has three lifeboat stations in Donegal, at Bundoran, Arranmore and Lough Swilly, has launched its annual ‘Float to Live’ campaign in a bid to help prevent further tragedies.

Finn Mullen, a crew member at Bundoran Lifeboat Station and RNLI Water Safety Education Manager, said people in difficulty in the water should ignore their instincts and try to relax, despite the danger.

“Instinctively, most people who find themselves struggling in the water will begin to panic, swim, or thrash about. They should ignore the instinct and remember to float. Tilt your head back, with your ears submerged.”

“Relax and try to breathe normally. Move your hands and legs to help you stay afloat if you need to. We all float differently, so if your legs sink a bit don’t worry. By doing this, you give yourself the chance to rest and recover your breathing. Once you’ve regained control of your breathing, you can call for help or swim to safety.”

Mr Mullen added: “The seas around our coasts are cold enough year-round to trigger cold water shock, while waves and rip currents can overpower even the most experienced water users. Many people who end up in danger never planned to enter the water, so this advice could be a lifesaver for anyone who is heading to the water – even those who are experienced, and those who have no plans to enter the water.”

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Remember, the charity’s advice for anyone struggling in the water is ‘Float to Live’:

Tilt your head back with your ears submerged; Relax and try to breathe normally; Move your hands and feet to help you stay afloat; It’s fine if your legs sink; Practise floating in a local pool.

If you see someone else struggling in water: call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard. Tell the person to relax and float on their back. Throw something buoyant to help them stay afloat.