With the UK heatwave having already tragically claimed two lives by drowning this week, Severn Trent, who own twelve reservoirs across the country, is issuing a further plea for people to stay out of their reservoirs. With temperatures on the rise and schools getting ready to close for summer, the temptation for many to cool down may be too much to resist.
Ted Pearce, head of property services at Severn Trent comments: “Unfortunately as we see the temperatures rise in the UK across June and July, we tragically see the number of drownings rise across the country. It can often look really tempting to jump into cool waters when the sun is beating down, but as we’ve already seen this year – it can lead to a serious risk to life. Please enjoy the summer at our sites but don’t go into the water.”
A number of people have already been caught swimming in Severn Trent reservoirs this year, unaware that they’re putting their life at risk. Although the water company take health and safety very seriously, reservoirs don’t come with a safety net of support like managed swimming pools and beaches.
Ted adds: “To give people an idea, one of our reservoirs is as deep as a nine story building – or six double-decker buses and freezing in temperature. People shouldn’t get in the water; reservoirs are dangerous places and even the strongest of swimmers can get into difficulty.
“Reservoirs also have water being pumped in and out creating very strong currents which aren’t always visible and they’ll easily overpower a swimmer.”
The Royal Life Saving Society UK’s Director of Volunteer and Community Education, Mike Dunn, said: “Last year saw a tragic amount of preventable deaths as people flocked to open water sites not suitable for swimming. These sites included rivers, quarries, lakes and reservoirs – all of which have many dangers including very cold water, currents, obstacles and uneven depths. They look so inviting but can be deadly.
“Cold Water Shock can happen at any time of the year, not just summer. When you jump, dive or fall into cold water, there’s an involuntary ‘gasp’ response (Cold Shock) as the water hits your skin – you won’t be able to control your breathing. During Cold Shock your blood
pressure rises and heart rate increases, and most people (even the best of swimmers) start to panic. During this phase, try to relax and get your breathing under control. The Cold Shock effect is short term, after around a minute, the body adapts and you’ll be able to breathe normally, shout for help and get out of the water if there’s an easy exit.
“Being aware of the basic principles of open water safety, combined with knowledge and understanding of Cold Water Shock and the hazards, can increase enjoyment and significantly reduce the number deaths each year.
“RLSS UK’s advice is to never swim alone and always to choose to swim at a supervised site where there are lifeguards to look after you and provide advice support if you need it.”