POLICE have issued a warning over the dangers of swimming in reservoirs following numerous reports about youngsters swimming in Appleton Reservoir during the school holidays.
Appleton police say they have received lots of calls over the last few days from residents who are concerned about youngsters swimming in Appleton Reservoir and cannot stress enough how dangerous this is.
There have also been reports of youngsters swimming in the Manchester Ship Canal near the Penny Ferry at Thelwall.
The below is a list of dangers compiled by Cheshire Fire and Rescue.
The dangers of swimming in reservoirs and open water include:
It can be deep. You cannot tell how deep the water is and there are often sudden drops which you cannot see
Reservoirs are often in isolated places. No matter how quickly you call for help it can be too late to help anyone in trouble
There may be hidden currents. These may be from our pipes which you cannot see or hear but will affect your ability to swim
There may be hidden obstacles beneath the surface. This may be machinery from our treatment works or even broken glass or other rubbish which has been thrown in
It may be difficult to get out. The sides of reservoirs are very steep in places, making it difficult to climb out. There can also be silt or mud on the bottom created when the levels reduce
There might be blue green algae in the water. From time to time blue green algae can build up at the water’s edge. It is not always visible to the naked eye but can produce toxins that cause skin rashes and stomach upsets. In case of contact wash immediately with clean water
It is always very cold. The temperatures in reservoirs rarely get above 10 degrees, even in summer.
This is cold enough to take your breath away, which is the body’s natural reaction, and can lead to panic and drowning. Cold can also make your arms and legs numb which means you can’t control them and can’t swim. It can lead to hypothermia – serious reduction in your body temperature – which can cause heart failure.
The ship canal at Thelwall
Officers have been patrolling Appleton reservoir today after several reports of youths swimming in the water.
As tempting as it is jump in, there are several hidden dangers. pic.twitter.com/glc1eJsJVv
— Appleton Police – Warrington (@AppletonWaPol) June 2, 2021
