Drowning: Safety, swimming, lifesaving, weirs, warning signs

1) A boy died jumping into a weir. Others had encouraged him to jump in.

2) The friend who went to save him was nearly pulled under and had to let go.
That always happens. You need training in life saving. You have to get behind the person and tow them back to the side. Unless you are a six foot man rescuing a baby, if you are in front of them they hang their arms around your neck and their weight pulls you under. (If you are similar size.) I learned that when I tried to rescue my mother in a swimming pool.
3) To a teenager Mum and Dad warning you not to do something is just parents fussing about anything and everything. A notice saying Danger or listing fatalities on weirs would look more independent and be taken more seriously.
4) Is it a criminal offence to encourage somebody to try a dangerous activity?
If not, it should be.
5) If you had a sign warning danger, then people who are likely to be swayed by others might be influenced by the sign.
6) Do schools run any campaigns in their citizenship courses in health and safety and local areas? If not, they should.