Take care on the towpaths this holiday

THE Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents has warned people to take care when walking the towpaths this Christmas.

In its report it warns that people should take care when walking by the rivers and canals stating:

"A post lunch saunter is a family tradition for many at this time of year but paths [towpaths] and river banks may be slippery.

"One of the greatest dangers when it comes to drowning is people accidentally falling into the water while doing everyday activities such as walking, cycling or running near water.

Keep away from the edge

Water safety development manager Emma Dudley tells us:

"Make sure you keep away from the edge as the water is cold and entering it could cause cold water shock."

The National Safety Water Forum also describes drowning as a 'silent epidemic' with on average 400 deaths each year. Everyday activities such as walking and running accounted for just under half of accidental fatalities'

So take care this holiday when on the towpaths.