Running, walking and cycling

In England, 41 per cent of accidental water-related fatalities that occurred between 2019 and 2023 were people who never intended to enter the water. Instead, they were taking part in everyday activities such as running, walking or cycling.

Slips, trips and falls whilst taking part in recreational activities near water can cause people to enter the water unexpectedly, increasing their risk of drowning.

Tips for running, walking or cycling near water

• Check the weather – Check the forecast before you head out. If you’re at the coast, check the tide times to avoid getting cut off. Avoid heading out in stormy or very windy weather. If you have to make the journey, take extra care
• Tell someone where you're going – Let someone know where you’re going and what time you intend to be back
• Take a mobile phone – Take your phone and ensure it has enough charge in case you need to call for help  
• Stick to popular routes if you're going out early or late – If you’re running, walking or cycling early in the morning or late at night, stick to well lit, high traffic areas where there are other people around
• Supervise children – Always supervise children near water and talk to them about how to stay safe
• Keep away from the water’s edge – inland, leaves and mud can obscure the bank and make the ground slippery underfoot. At the coast, uneven terrain cause slips and falls, both on coastal paths and along the shore. Pay attention to safety signs warning you of any dangers
• Choose a good route for your dog – If you’re walking or running with a dog, avoid routes by fast flowing or rocky waters that can make it difficult for a dog to scramble out. If your dog gets into trouble in the water, avoid entering the water yourself to rescue them – instead, encourage them to swim back to you or try to reach them from land using a branch or pole
• Stay sober near the water – Avoid walking, running or cycling near water if you have consumed alcohol.

What to do in an emergency

If you accidentally fall in the water, Float To Live:

• Lay on your back with your ears submerged
• Stay calm and try to breath normally
• Move your arms and legs for stability
• Don’t worry if your legs sink, we all float differently
• When the shock has passed, shout for help or swim to safety of you can
• Practise your float in a safe location like a swimming pool or lifeguarded beach.

If you see someone in trouble in the water, remember Phone Float Throw:

• Phone 999 to get help
• Tell them to stay calm and float on their back
• Throw them rescue equipment to help them float until the emergency services arrive.

More resources

For information on how to stay safe around waterways like canals, visit advice from the Canal and River Trust.

For tips about staying safe at the coast, see the Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s Coast Clever campaign.