Yorkshire Water is encouraging schools across the region to take part in its free water safety education programme as part of Drowning Prevention Week 2026, helping children and young people understand the dangers of open waters ahead of the summer holidays.

The initiative supports Drowning Prevention Week, organised by the Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK), which takes place from 13 to 20 June and aims to equip people with the knowledge and skills needed to stay safe in and around water.

During Drowning Prevention Week, Yorkshire Water’s education team will deliver a series of free live virtual water safety sessions for schools, alongside in-person water safety assemblies at two Yorkshire Water schools located on the East coast.

The sessions will help pupils understand the hidden dangers associated with open water environments, including reservoirs, rivers, canals, lakes and coastal areas, as well as what to do if they or someone else gets into difficulty.

Schools can join the following live sessions:
17 June- KS1 Water Safety- 9.15am
17 June- KS1 Water Safety- 10:00am
17 June- KS2 Water Safety- 11.15am
17 June- KS2 Water Safety- 1.15pm
17 June- KS2 Water Safety- 2.15pm
18 June- KS3/4 Water Safety- 2.00pm

The sessions are tailored to different age groups and delivered via Microsoft Teams by Yorkshire Water’s education advisors. The KS3 and KS4 session will be delivered in partnership with West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue and the RNLI.

During the sessions, students will learn about the effects of cold-water shock, hidden hazards beneath the water's surface, how to identify safe places to swim, and how to react in an emergency. The programme aligns with national water safety messaging and encourages young people to make informed decisions around water.

Anne Reed, Yorkshire Water’s social value and education manager, said: “With the summer holidays approaching and warmer weather encouraging more people outdoors, it is important that children and young people understand the risk associated with open water.

“Education plays a vital role in preventing tragedies, and we are proud to support Drowning Prevention Week by helping thousands of pupils across Yorkshire to learn potentially lifesaving skills.”

Yorkshire Water’s education programme forms part of the company’s wider commitment to supporting communities and improving safety across the region. Through interactive learning experiences, the team works with schools throughout Yorkshire to raise awareness of environmental issues, water conservation, and water safety.

Schools interested in learning more about Yorkshire Water’s education programme can find out more via the website www.yorkshirewater.com/education

For more information about Drowning Prevention Week, visit the Royal Life Saving Society UK website www.rlss.org.uk/