RNLI supports H₂O Heroes’ event at The Deep aquarium

The RNLI joined forces with The Deep in Hull this May half-term for H₂O Heroes, an engaging and educational event that welcomed over 20,000 visitors. Now in its third year, the event celebrates the vital work of the RNLI, His Majesty’s Coastguard, Humber Rescue and the Humberside Police Marine Protect Unit, while delivering essential water safety education to children and families.

Held at a key time in the lead-up to summer, H₂O Heroes focused on helping people learn how to stay safe in, on, and around the water. Through interactive displays, friendly conversations with real-life rescuers, and hands-on activities, the event aimed to equip families with the knowledge they need to enjoy the coast safely.

Martin Read, RNLI Humber Water Safety Officer, said: ‘It was a real privilege to be part of such a successful water safety event at The Deep. Working in partnership with the team here allowed us to engage with families and young people in a fun and meaningful way. As a RNLI volunteer, it’s incredibly rewarding to see people walk away with vital knowledge that could one day save a life. Events like this are so important in raising awareness and helping communities stay safe around water.’

Liam Fayle-Parr, Water Safety Delivery Support at the RNLI, added: ‘It was great to be partnering with The Deep for a third year running to deliver H₂O Heroes. Ahead of the summer holidays, it’s important that we encourage as many people as possible to stay safe at the coast whilst having fun. The team at the RNLI really enjoyed engaging with visitors during the May half-term and the fantastic atmosphere The Deep has.’

John Andrews, Guide Manager at The Deep, said: “It was a pleasure to welcome back our partners to deliver H₂O Heroes again this year. Their support is invaluable to ensuring the important message of staying safe around water is communicated in a fun and engaging way to visitors across a key school holiday period. We look forward to welcoming the teams’ back next year for an event which is lining up to be the biggest yet!”

With summer fast approaching, the RNLI is urging everyone to take a moment to learn how to stay safe by the water. The charity expressed its thanks to the team at The Deep for hosting such a dynamic and impactful event — and looks forward to future collaboration to continue sharing these life-saving messages with local communities.

RNLI Water Safety Advice:

• If you get into trouble in the water, Float to Live – tilt your head back, relax and try to control your breathing.
• In an emergency, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
• Always supervise children near water and check tide times and local safety guidance before heading out.
• Always choose a lifeguarded beach and swim between the flags.

Notes to Editor To learn more about The Deep and the work they do, more information is available Home | The Deep

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Jess Curtis, RNLI and Regional Engagements North and East, Lifeboat Press Officer at Wells: Tel 07483488243 Email: [email protected] contact the RNLI Press Office on 01202 336789.

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The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.

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