- London Fire Brigade has issued a warning following a 77% rise in winter water-related incidents
- So far in 2025, firefighters have attended more than 670 water-related incidents, more than double the number five years ago (305 in 2020)
- Despite the cold weather, November and December continue to see a high number of water rescues, with dozens of incidents already recorded this season
- The warning comes as firefighters mark six years since the death of Firefighter Anthony Knott, who sadly drowned in 2019
- The Brigade is urging people to take extra care near waterways, especially after dark and following festive celebrations
London Fire Brigade is urging Londoners to take extra care near rivers, canals, lakes and reservoirs this winter as new figures show a rise in water-related incidents in the colder months over the past five years.
Firefighters have already responded to more than 670 water-related incidents this year, which is more than double the number recorded just five years ago, and 2025 is now on track to exceed 700 incidents if current trends continue.
Last December saw 49 water-related callouts, making it the busiest month of the year outside the summer period. This November has followed a similar trend, with 46 incidents recorded, which is a sharp rise compared with just 26 in November 2020. The majority of these incidents involved people in difficulty in the water or trapped in mud.
The Brigade is issuing its warning as firefighters prepare to mark the sixth anniversary of the death of Firefighter Anthony Knott, whose accidental death in December 2019 remains deeply felt across the Brigade. Anthony, a devoted father and colleague, went missing while out celebrating with friends at a Christmas party. Sadly, his body was later found in the River Ouse three weeks later. It’s believed he got into difficulty when walking close to the river which was flooded at that time.
Colleagues who worked alongside Anthony say his memory underscores the urgency of today’s warning.
Firefighter John Scanlon said: “Anthony and I joined Addington Fire Station around the same time, and he quickly became not only a valued colleague but a close friend. His loss had a devastating impact on all of us.
“Anthony will always remain in our hearts. In his memory, we created a Memorial Garden at Addington Fire Station as a place to reflect, remember, and honour him. We continue his legacy by educating the public and working to prevent future tragedies. The best way we can remember him is by keeping others safe.”
With winter conditions making riverside paths more treacherous, from slippery surfaces and reduced visibility to cold water shock, the Brigade is urging people to take simple precautions when walking near waterways, particularly after dark.
Assistant Commissioner for Prevention and Protection, Pam Oparoacha, said: “We never want another family to face the pain Anthony’s family and colleagues have endured. But sadly, we’re seeing more and more water-related incidents at this time of year.
“If you’re heading out to a Christmas party or an evening walk near water, plan your route carefully, stick to well-lit areas and stay away from the edge.
“And if you see someone else in difficulty, please don’t enter the water yourself. Call 999 and try to throw them something that floats.”
Winter weather brings about different water risks. Find out more on London Fire Brigade’s website.
Notes to editors
- 26 water related incidents in November 2020, 46 water related incidents in November 2025 (77% increase).
- Between 1 January 2025 and 30 November 2025, firefighters attended more than 665 water-related incidents, including 20 fatalities.
- Water-related incidents have more than doubled in five years – from 305 in 2020 to 673 in 2025 (121% increase)
- Last year’s 49 incidents made December the joint third-highest month of 2024, behind the summer months of August and June.