Public Rescue Equipment Usage at Open Water Sites

Public Rescue Equipment (PRE) is often promoted as a central intervention within drowning prevention, yet its availability, effectiveness and impact are not well understood. Whilst there are regular calls from the media for increased provision of lifebuoys, throw lines and other rescue equipment, the evidence supporting their effectiveness is not always clear and their successful use relies on several factors outside the control of landowners and duty holders.

This short paper provides a high-level overview of Water Safety England’s perceived benefits and limitations of PRE at open water sites and its position.

Read the Public Rescue Equipment Usage at Open Water Sites position paper