The advice comes after MAAC uncovered that a tragic number of water-related incidents had resulted in deaths: “In the 47 drowning incidents we attended in the past three years, only 10 per cent of those we treated survived, despite the specialist medical care they received from both MAAC and other emergency services on scene,” said Ian Roberts, Air Operations Manager for MAAC.

The two charities have advised that people should look out for dangers in the water, take heed of signs and warnings around the water’s edge, to never swim out on open water alone and to have an emergency plan in place, should anything go awry.

James Bamforth, General Manager of SARA, said: "Sadly, during this time of year we are often called to assist in the aftermath of accidents in and around open water. Whilst we encourage people to use our waterways, we ask that people stop and think about their safety and others around them.”