Tragically, this year has already seen multiple deaths of people swimming in open water throughout Britain. Most of these deaths involved young people entering water in rivers or reservoirs during hot weather; almost half (47%) of UK accidental drownings happen between May and August.
We urge people not to swim in reservoirs because they can be dangerous, even for the strongest swimmers. You should always be aware of your surroundings, keep to designated footpaths and comply with warning signs around reservoirs.
Stay safe, stay out
Reservoirs are deep, open expanses of water that can be tempting for swimming, especially in warm weather. However, they are also operational sites with hidden machinery and concrete structures for water treatment working under the surface that can cause injury.
Underwater hazards include water intakes (suction pipes) that create strong, unpredictable currents affecting the ability to swim safely. Other hidden dangers found at reservoirs include underwater plant life that can entangle swimmers and steep, slippery banks, making it difficult to climb out.
Reservoirs are often remote, secluded areas and have no lifeguarding facilities. Poor mobile phone coverage also hinders rescue attempts in the event of an emergency.
Cold water shock
Deep water in reservoirs means temperatures rarely rise above 12°C, even on a warm day. This is defined as cold water and can seriously affect your breathing and movement.
Cold water shock occurs when temperatures are cold enough to stiffen muscles, inducing fatigue and making it impossible to stay afloat and swim to safety.
The shock of cold water causes uncontrollable change in breathing rates, contributing to a feeling of panic, and can lead to hyperventilation, depriving the brain of oxygen which affects co-ordination.
Cold water also causes heart rates to increase as blood pressure rises, making even the young and healthy vulnerable to heart attacks.
What about water sports and organised events like triathlons?
Triathlons are officially organised events, which are closely supervised and have appropriate safety measures in place. Swim competitors have completed open water swim training and are familiar with the hazards of cold water.
All water sports participants in organised events use buoyancy aids or other flotation devices.
What to do if you see someone in trouble
If you fall into water, the Royal Life Saving Society recommends that you stay calm, float on your back and call for help.
If you see someone who is in difficulty in the water, contact the emergency services (call 999 or 112). Reassure them that help is coming and encourage them to float on their back. Keep them in your line of sight and, circumstances permitting, throw something buoyant to aid their safety until help arrives without endangering yourself.
To find out more about summer water safety, visit the Royal Life Saving Society’s website.