Stay safe around the seafront during World Cup celebrations

England’s World Cup match against Mexico is taking place at 1am on Monday morning. 

With pub and bar licenses being extended into the early hours for the football this weekend, we are urging everyone to stay safe around the seafront and not underestimate the dangers of entering the sea after drinking alcohol. 

Dr Nicola Lang, Brighton & Hove City Council’s Director of Public Health, said: “We want people to enjoy the match, but we also want everyone to get home safely.

“The sea can be dangerous at any time of day, but risks increase significantly at night. Even if you're not in difficulty, entering the sea can trigger a major emergency response and put additional strain on emergency services.

"It's especially dangerous after drinking. Alcohol impairs your judgement, balance and your ability to cope with cold water shock.

“Our message is simple: stay away from the water, look after your friends and call 999 straight away if someone is in danger.

“Please make a plan before the match starts do not let a friend go near the sea if they have been drinking, unwell or upset.”

Stay safe

Alcohol and swimming do not mix. Do not enter the water if you have been drinking alcohol or are intoxicated. Alcohol impairs your judgement, balance and your ability to cope with cold water shock.

If you unexpectedly find yourself in the water, Float to Live. Tilt your head back with your ears submerged, relax and try to control your breathing. Use your hands to help you stay afloat and spread your arms and legs. Once your breathing is under control, call for help or swim to safety if you can.

Think before entering the water at night. The sea can be dangerous at any time of day, but risks increase significantly at night. Even if you're not in difficulty, entering the sea can trigger a major emergency response and put additional strain on emergency services.

Watch out for your friends. If someone has been drinking, help them stay away from the water and ensure they get home safely.

If you see someone in trouble in the water, call 999 immediately and ask for the Coastguard. If possible, keep the casualty in sight and direct emergency services to their location.

Be aware of Brighton & Hove’s steep shelving beaches. The seabed drops away very quickly, meaning water can become deep within only a few steps of the shoreline. The current spring tides bring higher than normal water levels. A few steps from the shore you can be in the water over your head. 

Take extra care around Black Rock and Brighton Marina. The fan zone is located next to an area of particularly hazardous water, with strong and complex currents that can sweep you underwater or out to sea quickly. There’s also submerged hazards and. Stay clear of the marina walls, harbour entrances and coastal structures. 

If someone is very unwell after drinking or taking other substances, call 999 for an ambulance and tell the crew what you know.