More than 1,000 secondary school students have received a 'serious message' on water safety from the fire service.

The crucial safety advice was delivered during four assemblies at Ullswater Community College by the team from Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service's Penrith station to mark Child Safety Week.

Pupils from years seven to 10 received a detailed explanation about potential risks associated with water, including the impact of cold water shock and actions they should take if they were to encounter difficulties.

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One of the focuses of these talks was the 'Float to Live' technique, a survival method advising a person in life-threatening difficulty in water to lie on their back, head tilted upwards and arms spread, to control breathing and maintain buoyancy.

Cumbria's PFCC, David Allen, attended the educational session.

He said: "In support of national Child Safety Week, firefighters from Penrith's Gold and Black Watches delivered some really hard-hitting and thought-provoking presentations on water safety this week.

"Sadly, accidents and fatalities do occur in Cumbria's lakes and rivers.

"When asked, the majority of pupils said they had put themselves at risk when in and around water at some point."

Mr Allen added: "As summer approaches and the weather warms up, many young people will visit our lakes and rivers.

"This is why it is essential to highlight the safety messages around cold water shock and the dangers associated with water and how to deal with the threats."

Stephen Gilby, headteacher at Ullswater Community College, said: "Having grown up on the coast, water safety is a topic that is very close to my heart.

"The students, staff, parents and I are incredibly grateful for the important message shared with over 1,000 of our students by the team from Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service."

He added: "The students have taken a lot from the session, most importantly the serious message of keeping themselves and others safe.

"The assembly forms part of the work we do with the whole of the Ullswater community to support our ‘caring’ value and ensure all are well educated in these important areas - stay safe!"

For more information on water safety, visit www.cumbriafire.gov.uk/water-safety.