Beyond the Surface
Beyond the Surface brings you life-saving water safety education and practical mental well-being tools from someone who truly understands both worlds. Hosted by Debbie Anne Turnbull MBE, this podcast combines the heart of a mother who lost her only son to drowning with the expertise of a professionally trained trauma-informed practitioner and water safety specialist.
After transforming her profound grief into purpose, Debbie has worked directly with the RNLI, police, fire services and emergency responders to understand what really keeps families safe around water. Her unique approach makes safety education accessible to busy parents whilst addressing the mental health skills that support both individual wellbeing and family resilience.
Each episode delivers powerful conversations, practical and memorable safety knowledge you can implement immediately, alongside mental health ideas that help you manage stress, support others and create lasting positive change.
Whether you're a parent seeking confident water safety knowledge, a professional in caring roles or someone on a healing journey, you'll find actionable insights delivered with authenticity and compassion.
Perfect for: Safety-conscious parents, HR and wellbeing professionals, healthcare and education workers, anyone interested in trauma recovery and nervous system health.
New episodes every Thursday.
Beyond the Surface
Why Strong Swimmers Drown: Chris's Story | Water Safety Truth - Beyond the Surface Ep. 8
n this powerful episode, Debbie Anne Turnbull MBE shares the devastating story of how she lost her son, Chris, to drowning. Despite being a strong swimmer, Chris fell victim to cold water shock when he jumped into water that was just 3-4°C - the same temperature as your fridge at home.
What You'll Learn:
- The reality of cold water shock and how it affects even the strongest swimmers
- Why water temperature of 3-4°C is fatal regardless of swimming ability
- The "boil" effect and underwater cave dangers that trapped Chris
- Float to Live technique that has saved countless lives
- Critical water safety awareness every parent needs to know
- Why vigilance matters
Key Insights from This Episode:
"It happens in a second. It's gone in a second. That's it. It's too late." - Debbie shares the harsh reality of water accidents and the importance of vigilance.
Float to Live Technique:
Learn the life-saving technique that involves floating with arms outstretched.
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Connect with Debbie and find out more about her work here:
W: www.riverandseasense.com
E: debbie@riverandseasense.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/riverandseasense
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-anne-turnbull-mbe-33190510/