CHESHIRE Fire and Rescue Service has issued a grim warning of particular relevance for Warrington, with its rivers, canals, ponds, lakes and reservoirs – water can kill.
As the hot weather continued, with little sign of change, fire chiefs w3arned: “Cooling off in rivers, canals, ponds, quarries and lakes can have deadly consequences.”
And with the school holidays starting, the message became even more vital.
Terry McDermott, head of service delivery said: “We want people to enjoy summer – however we also want people to do it safely.
“Sadly, each year people die swimming in open water. Firefighters and other emergency services also risk their own safety to rescue people who get into difficulties on our waterways. Our advice is to only ever swim outdoors as part of organised open water swimming club.
“Don’t let a cooling dip be the last thing you ever do. Please follow our
advice to stay safe this summer.”
There are about 260 accidental water deaths each year.
Risks include the cold water which can cause a swimmer’s body to shut down or the onset of cramp, which can leave a person unable to continue. Certain waterways can also have strong undercurrents or underwater debris that can prove fatal.
These conditions can affect anyone, even an experienced open water swimmer.
The Service has issued the following advice: Only swim as part of an organised group; Never go swimming alone; Ensure you stay clear of boats and canoes to avoid accidents; Never drink alcohol before swimming; Know your limits – the cold can kill; Don’t ignore the safety signs – it could cost you your life.
For more information about water safety or for links to local organised open water swimming clubs visit the Service’s website www.cheshirefire.gov.uk
CHESHIRE Fire and Rescue Service has issued a grim warning of particular
relevance for Warrington, with its rivers, canals, ponds, lakes and
reservoirs – water can kill.
Water can kill warning
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About Author
Gary Skentelbery
Experienced journalist for more than 40 years. Managing Director of magazine publishing group with three in-house titles and on-line daily newspaper for Warrington. Experienced writer, photographer, PR consultant and media expert having written for local, regional and national newspapers. Specialties: PR, media, social networking, photographer, networking, advertising, sales, media crisis management. Chair of Warrington Healthwatch Director Warrington Chamber of Commerce Patron Tim Parry Johnathan Ball Foundation for Peace. Trustee Warrington Disability Partnership. Former Chairman of Warrington Town FC.
