AS the festive period begins, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service launch their ‘Think before you drink’ campaign to urge the public to stay safe around water and not put themselves or others at risk whilst celebrating this time of year.

Every December, fire crews respond to a disproportionate number of water resources and road traffic collisions linked to alcohol and drugs.

SWFRS is responsible for responding to inland water rescue incidents across South Wales, with Barry, Penarth, Malpas, and Ebbw Vale having water safety equipment and boats to conduct these rescues.

Every year the service supports the Royal Life Saving Society’s Don’t Drink and Drown Campaign, which urges people to stay with friends and plan safe routes home that avoid waterways after consuming alcohol or drugs.

Figures show that three in four young adult drinkers believe it is safe to enter the water after drinking alcohol or consuming drugs, 46 per cent of young people who accidentally drowned had alcohol or drugs in their system- many of whom were walking home near water.

According to Crimestoppers UK, approximately one in five road collisions involves a driver or rider impaired by alcohol or drugs. Drink-driving isn’t subjective to December and the festive period, crews from SWFRS respond to RTCs all year round, however there is a noticeable spike in incidents during December compared to other winter months.

In the last three years, SWFRS crews have attended more serious RTCs in December than any other month of the year.

The number of casualties which occurred because of drink-driving incidents in 2023 was higher in Wales than the rest of the UK.

The increase in these incidents cause extra pressure on emergency services and often have devastating consequences for families and communities.

SWFRS is urging people, especially young adults to think twice before making careless decisions this festive period.

Nathan Harris, Group Manager, Head of Road Safety and Water Safety, said: “We want everyone to enjoy their celebrations safely; alcohol and drugs can impair judgement and increase the risks of tragedy, whether that is accidentally falling into water or thinking you’re safe to drive after consuming alcohol or drugs.

“Every year alongside our emergency service partners, we see the devasting impact these incidents have on families and friends. By making these simple, safer choice, you can protect yourselves, your loved ones, and other members of the public.”

The ‘Think before you drink’ campaign shares essential and potentially life-saving messaging urging the public to stay safe after drinking alcohol.

SWFRS reminds people to:

In an emergency, the public is reminded to always call 999, but if you suspect someone is drink or drug regularly, there is an option to report anonymously through Crimestoppers UK.