The UK’s biggest family water safety festival, powered by partnerships, is back at The Deep for the fourth year running.
Visitors attending the iconic aquarium over May half-term can expect to gear up for an engaging and action-packed event, as their popular ‘H2O Heroes’ event returns.
Between 23rd and 31st May, visitors can make the most of a truly unique chance to learn all about water safety through the largest partnership of rescue organisations The Deep has ever welcomed under one roof.
‘H2O Heroes’ spotlights an exciting collaboration between the RNLI, HM Coastguard, Humber Rescue, Humberside Police Marine Protect Unit, and new for this year- Hornsea Inshore Rescue and Humberside Fire & Rescue.
The event showcases a one-of-a-kind opportunity to meeting numerous real-life heroes face-to-face, inspiring future careers and uncovering more about their incredible work saving lives at sea. Hear their stories come to life and be inspired by the amazing hard work, often voluntary, that goes on both out on the boats and behind-the-scenes of these fantastic organisations.
There will be photo opportunities, kit dress up, outdoor vehicle and boat displays, hands-on activities, daily presentations and much more on offer!
John Andrews, Head of Operations & Guides at The Deep, said: “We’re pleased to be partnering once again with these amazing rescue organisations, working collectively to spread an important message ahead of the busy summer holiday period about water safety to such a large audience.”
“H2O Heroes wouldn’t be possible without the support of our amazing rescue organisations, and we are immensely grateful to all for dedicating their time towards what is shaping up to be a hugely exciting event for visitors.”
Liam Fayle-Parr, Water Safety Delivery Support at the RNLI, said: “We’re really looking forward to meeting families at The Deep and sharing simple, lifesaving messages – like how floating on your back can help if you find yourself in difficulty in the water, and the importance of calling 999 and asking for the Coastguard if someone is in trouble.”
“It’s also a great opportunity for people to have fun, dress up as lifeboat crew and learn about water safety in an engaging, memorable way. We’re excited and grateful to be working with The Deep for a fourth year running.’
Sarah Wilkinson, Head of Prevention at Humberside Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We are delighted to be taking part in this year’s H2O Heroes event. Across the Humber region we have a lot of natural and man-made areas of water, and it’s essential that we continue to raise awareness of the dangers of being in or around water to prevent accidental drownings.”
“Even the strongest swimmers can be endangered by the unseen hazards and cold-water shock. It’s crucial that people know what to do in an emergency, including ‘Floating To Live’, and calling for help rather than attempting a risky rescue themselves. By being water aware, we can all help prevent needless tragedies and keep ourselves and others safe.”
Yusef Forster, Head of Public Engagement at Humber Rescue, said: “We’re really pleased to be supporting H2O Heroes again this year. As an independent lifeboat charity operating across the Humber Estuary and surrounding waterways, we see first-hand how quickly situations around water can change.
“Events like this are a fantastic opportunity to engage with families and young people in a fun, accessible way while sharing important water safety messages. If even one person leaves The Deep knowing what to do in an emergency, or how to stay safer around water, then the event has made a real difference.”
Sue Hickson-Marsay, Station Manager at Hornsea Inshore Rescue, commented: “We are incredibly proud to have been invited to this event along with many other emergency services. Water safety is a very important subject and it’s paramount we get the message out there to the general public, no better way than adding an element of fun!”
David Barrass, Sergeant at Humberside Police Marine Protect Unit, added: “We’re proud to be joining H2O Heroes at The Deep once again. The team are looking forward to engaging with families during the half-term event as part of our mission to raise awareness of water safety. It’s a fantastic opportunity to show how all our emergency services work together to keep our communities safe around water.”
The best part? This event is entirely included in standard admission; no additional booking is required! Every paid ticket to The Deep is an Annual Pass.
Pre-booking a visit is highly recommended over the May half-term holidays.