Summer homework - 'Find Your Float'

Learning to float on your back in the water is one of the most important life skills to master… seems so simple, but why?

Floating on your back could save your life. It has long been the message of the RNLI to ‘Float to Live’ but that has now been updated by the RLSS to ‘Find Your Float’. The reason for this is everyone floats differently! Depending on your gender, body composition etc instead of just floating like a star on your back, you may need to add in a gentle leg kick or sculling (waving under the water) arms to help you float. Learning to float involves understanding your own body's buoyancy and finding a comfortable, relaxed position in the water.

Here’s some summer homework to practice with all the family…

How to Find Your Float?

  • Gently lay back in the water with your ears submerged

  • Tip your chin to the sky and eyes looking up to help bring your torso up

  • Spread your arms and legs and try to calmly breathe and relax your muscles

  • Add in a gentle arm and leg action if that helps you stay afloat but remember the aim is to conserve energy to give you time to attract help

What to do in an emergency…

  • Stay calm:

    Panic can lead to increased energy expenditure and make it harder to float. Try to relax and breathe slowly.

  • Float on your back:

    This position helps conserve energy and allows you to keep your head above water.

  • Call for help:

    If possible, shout for help or use a whistle to alert others to your situation.

  • If you see someone in trouble:

    Do not enter the water to attempt a rescue yourself. Instead, throw something that floats to them, like a lifebuoy or a throwline, and call for help.


 
 

For more information visit: https://www.rlss.org.uk



Amanda Sharples