Fire service emphasise dangers of open water

Date published: 11/08/2008

Following a number of serious water incidents in the County over recent weeks, and with the hot weather set to continue, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service has issued a safety warning emphasising the dangers of swimming in open water.

County Fire Officer Barry Dixon said: “It is an almost inevitable fact that a spate of hot weather usually means we will find ourselves attending incidents involving someone who has got into difficulty while playing on or near water. I know it’s tempting for people but it is all too easy for them to get into trouble. If you fancy a dip then go to your local swimming pool or supervised water sports facility where it’s safe.”

The reasons why people should avoid swimming in open water are: 

• There is no supervision (lifeguards), should people get into trouble. 
• The water is often a lot colder than people expect and it can impact on peoples physical capabilities. 
• Often people can’t find a suitable place to get out of the water. 
• There is no way of knowing what lies beneath the water surface, shopping trolleys, opened tin cans and broken bottles are all examples of what has been found in the past. 

Throughout the summer months you can find details of organised water activities across the county on the safe4summer.com website.