Recognizing a Lifesaving Mission
Debbie Ann Turnbull, a dedicated water safety advocate from Holywell, North Wales, has been awarded the prestigious Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the New Year’s Honours list. Recognized for her relentless efforts in educating young people and families about the dangers of open water, Turnbull’s accolade underscores her commitment to preventing drowning tragedies across the UK.
The Journey from Tragedy to Advocacy
Turnbull’s journey into water safety education began in 2006 after the heartbreaking loss of her 15-year-old son, Christopher, who drowned while swimming with friends in open water. Determined to prevent similar tragedies, she established River and Sea Sense (RASS) in 2008, a nonprofit organization dedicated to water safety awareness. Over the years, Turnbull has reached over 700,000 young people, teaching them the importance of understanding the risks associated with open water.
Expanding Water Safety Education Across the UK
With the recognition of her MBE, Turnbull aims to amplify her water safety message, building stronger partnerships and securing more speaking engagements. In 2024, she plans to train teachers in 60 additional schools, ensuring that water safety education reaches more young minds. Her expertise will also be showcased at networking events and professional conferences, where she will continue to advocate for open-water awareness.
“From Loss to Legacy”: A Personal Story of Resilience
In addition to her educational work, Turnbull is working on a book titled From Loss to Legacy, which will document her journey from personal loss to becoming a nationwide advocate for water safety. The book aims to support families facing challenges and inspire young women to pursue their ambitions, regardless of adversity.
Comprehensive Water Safety Education Programs
RASS offers structured educational programs tailored to different age groups and learning environments:
1. School Lessons
A 40 to 60-minute interactive presentation designed for junior and senior students. This session includes:
- Cold Water Shock: Understanding its effects on the body.
- Underwater Hazards: Identifying potential dangers.
- Tombstoning Risks: The perils of jumping from heights into water.
- Temperature Awareness: How water temperature affects survival chances.
- Inflatables & Currents: Why they pose risks in open water.
- Peer Pressure & Alcohol Influence: Addressing risky behaviors.
- Emergency Preparedness: Steps to take when faced with a drowning situation.
2. School Assemblies
A 20-minute water safety introduction suitable for schools, colleges, universities, and youth organizations. This session covers key open-water dangers and serves as a primer for more in-depth lessons.
3. Bespoke Workshops
Tailored sessions designed for younger audiences, featuring interactive discussions and quizzes to reinforce key safety messages. These workshops make learning about water safety engaging while highlighting the serious consequences of drowning.
A Future Dedicated to Water Safety
Turnbull’s MBE is more than just an honor—it is a testament to her unwavering dedication to saving lives through education. Her mission continues as she expands RASS’s reach, educates future generations, and shares her inspiring journey. By spreading awareness and equipping individuals with essential water safety knowledge, Turnbull is ensuring that fewer families experience the devastating loss she endured.