Cosmeston Lake Aqua Park has raised more than £840 to support local water safety education.
In partnership with the Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK), the Aqua Park hosted special Charity double-dip sessions at its Cosmeston Lakes site, raising a total of £841.50.
The funds were raised through special two-hour Charity Aqua Park sessions, where 50% of proceeds have been ring-fenced for water safety education through community outreach initiatives. These initiatives provide vital water safety and CPR education in local schools and community clubs
RLSS UK volunteers were also on-site during the event to speak with visitors, offering free water safety and CPR advice.
Matt Croxall, Interim Charity Director at RLSS UK, said: “Aqua Parks are a fantastic way for people to come together and enjoy open water activities, and we want to make sure everyone has fun and enjoys the benefits that being near water brings, while remaining safe.
“Naturally, the climb in temperature during summer causes excitement and many will inevitably be cooling off in lakes, rivers and canals. But the risks associated with swimming in unsupervised open water locations, including quarries and canals, include unknown depths, potential objects beneath the surface, strong currents and water temperature can quickly drop, increasing the risk of cold-water shock.
“We’d always advise people to wear the appropriate safety equipment, including buoyancy aids and wetsuits, and attend venues with organised activities with trained lifeguards, to help keep themselves safe in open water.”
“It was amazing to see the community come together to support a great cause,” said Connor James, Director at Cosmeston Lakes Aqua Park. “Our volunteers did an incredible job in the sunny weather, engaging with visitors and helping spread awareness about how to enjoy the water safely. A huge thank you to everyone who came down and hopefully picked up some useful tips.”