May 2026

Elite Precast Concrete supports Stay Safe 2026 Campaign

As communities prepare for the summer months, Elite Precast Concrete is supporting the Mineral Products Association’s (MPA) Stay Safe 2026 campaign, encouraging everyone to understand the risks associated with open water, active industrial sites, quarries and other potentially hazardous locations.

Recent weeks have seen a concerning rise in water-related incidents across the UK.

During the record-breaking May heatwave, numerous people, including several young people, tragically lost their lives after entering rivers, lakes, reservoirs and coastal waters. Safety organisations have highlighted that while air temperatures may feel warm, water temperatures can remain dangerously cold, creating the risk of cold-water shock and drowning.

Many people are drawn to open water during periods of hot weather, often unaware of the hidden dangers beneath the surface. Strong currents, sudden drops in depth, underwater obstacles, deep mud, unstable banks and extremely cold water can quickly turn a day out into an emergency.

The MPA is urging operators of quarries and other industrial sites to review public safety measures, including fencing, warning signs and site security. This follows incidents around the country where individuals have entered restricted areas and become trapped or placed themselves in danger.

At Elite Precast Concrete, safety is at the heart of everything we do. We are proud to support efforts that help raise awareness and encourage responsible behaviour around open water and industrial environments.

Understanding the risks

Open water environments can be unpredictable, regardless of swimming ability. Even experienced swimmers can be affected by:

• Cold water shock
• Hidden underwater hazards
• Deep mud and unstable ground
• Strong currents and sudden changes in depth
• Fatigue and panic caused by unexpected conditions

Parents, carers and educators are encouraged to discuss these risks with young people, particularly as school holidays approach and more time is spent outdoors.

Remember: Float to Live

If you find yourself in difficulty in the water:

• Tilt your head back with your ears submerged.
• Relax and try to control your breathing.
• Move your hands gently to help stay afloat.

Once the initial shock has passed, call for help or swim to safety.

If you see someone in trouble: PHONE – FLOAT – THROW

The safest way to help someone in difficulty is to remember:

• PHONE – Call 999 immediately.
• FLOAT – Encourage the person to float on their back.
• THROW – Throw something that floats to help them stay above water.

Never enter the water to attempt a rescue yourself.

Working together for a safer summer

Elite Precast Concrete is committed to supporting initiatives that protect our communities and raise awareness of preventable risks.

We encourage everyone across the UK to enjoy the outdoors responsibly, respect warning signs and restricted areas and take extra care around rivers, lakes, reservoirs, quarries and coastal locations.

By working together and sharing these important safety messages, we can help prevent avoidable tragedies and ensure that everyone enjoys a safe and memorable summer.

For more information on water safety, visit the RNLI’s Float to Live website at Float To Live – What To Do In An Emergency – RNLI