Water safety in Bristol Harbour

If you see someone struggling in the water

Never enter the water yourself.

Always 
Call 999 immediately
Tell the person to float on their back 
Throw them something that floats 

If you see someone in danger

  • Phone 999 immediately and ask for the fire service.
  • Do not enter the water yourself. Entering the water to attempt a rescue can put you in serious danger.
  • Tell the person to float on their back (Float to Live). Encourage them to spread their arms and legs wide, moving them gently to stay afloat. This will help them to control their breathing.
  • Throw something that floats if it's safe to do so, such as a throwline, lifebuoy, other buoyant object such as a football or rugby ball in a backpack.
  • Stay at a safe distance from the water's edge and keep talking to the person until help arrives.

If you fall into the water: Float to Live

Cold water shock can affect anyone, even strong swimmers.

  • Fight the urge to swim or panic.
  • Float on your back (Float to Live), keeping your airway clear.
  • Spread your arms and legs and push your stomach up to help you stay afloat.
  • Try to control your breathing and stay calm.
  • Once your breathing is under control, signal or shout for help and try to move slowly towards safety or an exit point.
  • Along the harbour walls there are grab chains and exit points you can use to help yourself out of the water.

Staying safe around Bristol Harbour

Many water incidents happen when people did not intend to enter the water, often due to slips, trips or falls.

  • Do not swim in the harbour unless it is part of a supervised and organised swim session.
  • The water is cold all year round and rarely rises above 12 degrees even on the hottest of days. Cold-water shock can quickly overwhelm even the strongest of swimmers.
  • Always stay away from the edge, especially when it is dark, wet, or after drinking alcohol.
  • Harbour conditions can change quickly. The water is deep, fast-moving and unpredictable.
  • There are strong underwater currents, including around sluices that move water and silt into the river.
  • Look out for your friends, your mates matter, and avoid risky behaviour near the water.
  • Remember that Bristol Harbour is a working harbour, with boats and vessels moving regularly.

Never enter the water yourself to help a person or an animal that is struggling. Always call 999 immediately.

Water safety advice