Specialist water rescue training rolled out to response officers

Neighbourhood officers from Durham City, Crook and Barnard Castle have recently taken part in water rescue training provided by our colleagues at County Durham & Darlington Fire & Rescue Service.

This is additional specialist training that will also be rolled out to response officers over the coming months.

Money to fund the purchase of the throw ropes has also been provided by Durham University, the Durham Police and Crime Commissioner, and the City of Durham Parish Council.

Throw ropes are a small but vital piece of rescue equipment that will be carried in police vehicles in the Durham City area, allowing our officers the best chance of getting people to safety in an emergency.

If you ever find yourself in danger, remember this key advice:

• 'Float to Live' if you get into trouble in the water.
• If you see someone who needs help, call 999, tell them to float on their back, and throw them something that floats.
• Never go into the water yourself.