Skip to content

Water Safety 2026

With temperatures remaining high across the UK, ABP is urging people to stay out of the
water in port areas and choose lifeguarded beaches instead. Ports are busy, working
environments. They are not designed for swimming or recreation. Even in calm conditions,
the dangers are serious and often hidden: 

  • strong currents and sudden drops 
  • submerged objects and debris  
  • vessel movements and operational activity  
  • cold water shock

The message is simple. Stay out of the water at ports. If you do find yourself in difficulty,
remember the RNLI’s advice:

  •  Float to Live.
  • Resist the instinct to swim straight away.
  • Instead lean back, relax, and spread your arms and legs to help you stay afloat.

If you see someone in trouble, do not enter the water. Call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
Please see the linked water safety presentation from the Associated British Ports for more
information.