Police and Fire and Rescue Service issue warning about the dangers of open water swimming

Gloucestershire Constabulary and Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service are urging people to take extra care when considering swimming in open water this summer.

The advice is to only do so as part of a club, where there is a lifeguard on duty or there are safety precautions in place and to not swim alone.

The warning comes as schools break up for the summer and the warmer weather will inevitably see people flock to popular beauty spots to try and cool off.

The two agencies are offering a reminder about the risks involved in swimming in deep, open water such as strong currents, submerged and hazardous objects and steep and uneven banks.

Underwater weeds can also be dangerous as they are difficult to swim through and can get tangled around limbs.

People are advised to stay out of rivers, reservoirs and other open water sources, and they are being discouraged from swimming in quarries as the depth can change suddenly and there is a risk of death.

For those who want to try open water swimming safely, they are advised to visit an accredited or recognised venue where staff would be on-site to provide advice.

Advice includes:

• Never swim alone in case you need help
• Don't drink alcohol before going in the water as it impairs judgement and your ability to swim
• Avoid walking routes near water if you have been drinking alcohol
• Don't dive or jump straight into open water as it can potentially cause fatal cold water shock
• Talk to young people in your care about the dangers of entering water, actively supervise children in and around water
• If you find yourself unexpectedly in the water, don't panic – extend your arms and legs out and float on your back until the effect of cold water shock passes
• Never enter the water to try to rescue someone; call 999 and ask for the Fire Service if inland and the Coastguard if you are at the coast

Inspector James Hutchins of Gloucestershire Constabulary, said: "We're lucky to have many beautiful lakes and rivers in the county and while we want people to enjoy them, we also want them to stay safe and behave responsibly.

"These bodies of water may look appealing and safe for a summertime swim, but there are many hidden dangers which can overwhelm even good swimmers very quickly.

"The water can be very cold, even in the summer months, and can cause cold water shock. This can affect your breathing, movement and ability to swim in as little as three minutes.

"If you see someone in trouble, you may instinctively want to jump in and help, but we would urge people not to put themselves at risk and instead call the emergency services immediately and offer support from a safe position. The best way to stay safe this summer is to swim at locations where lifeguards are present."

Mark Preece, Chief Fire Officer at Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service, said: "We are urging people to be safe when they spend time in and around water.

"We want to encourage people to make safe choices around water and to know what to do in an emergency to reduce the risk of drowning. You can help prevent the devastating impact drowning has on families and communities by following our advice."

For further tips and advice on swimming in open water, please visit: Water Safety (gloucestershire.gov.uk)