Making a Splash with Water Safety!

Last week, Primary 4-6 took part in Drowning Prevention Week with a super surprise at the end!

We know summer is just around the corner, and with all that sunshine comes the urge to cool off in the water. But before we dive in, it’s important to remember how to stay safe!

That’s why we were lucky enough to have a webinar with the Irish RNLI! They talked to us about all the important things to know when we’re near the water, especially in the warmer months.

We learned the 4 key rules of the Water Code:

1. Stop and Think! Is it safe to go in the water here? Are there any dangers like strong currents or deep areas?
2. Stay Together! Always be with a friend or grown-up when you’re near water.
3. Call 999! If you see someone in trouble, don’t go in after them. Call for help straight away!
4. Float! If you fall into deep water unexpectedly, stay calm and try to float on your back until help arrives.

But the fun didn’t stop there!

After the webinar, guess what happened? Our Learning Assistant, Miss Stevenson, who works with the local RNLI, surprised us all!

She went home and brought back her official RNLI clothing and lifejacket to show us! We all got to see how the RNLI heroes look when they’re out there rescuing people. It was so cool!

Not only that, but Miss Stevenson brought back a whole pile of awesome RNLI goodies for each of us! We got keyrings, pencils, stickers, wristbands, notepads and more! A HUGE thank you to Miss Stevenson and the RNLI for making this Drowning Prevention Week lesson extra special. We had a fantastic morning learning all about water safety – and getting some awesome treats too!

Remember, everyone: stay safe by the water this summer and follow the Water Code!

• UNCRC 6 – Right to Life: This lesson directly addressed water safety, which is crucial for protecting children’s right to life and survival.
• UNCRC 24 – Right to Health: Learning about water safety helps children understand and avoid potential dangers, promoting their health and well-being.
• UNCRC 28 – Right to Education: The lesson provided children with knowledge and skills to stay safe in and around water, fulfilling their right to education on important life skills.
• UNCRC 31 – Right to Play and Leisure: By promoting water safety, the lesson allows children to enjoy the benefits of playing and spending time near water with reduced risk.
• SDG Goal 3 – Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages: By teaching children water safety and the importance of the Water Code, this lesson directly contributes to Target 3.9: “By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and injuries from road traffic accidents and other unintentional injuries, including drowning.”
• SHANARRI – Safe, Healthy, Active