Heatwave prompts open water warnings for Staffordshire and Cheshire

With temperatures rising above 30 degrees this week, authorities in Staffordshire and Cheshire are warning residents about the dangers of swimming in open water.

Open bodies of water, like lakes and rivers, can appear inviting but pose hidden risks such as strong currents, unpredictable depths, and cold water shock. These hazards can be just beneath the surface and can affect even the strongest swimmers without warning.

Nick Jones from Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service advises against personal rescue attempts if someone is in trouble, urging people to “call 999 immediately.”

Detective Superintendent Clare Coleman from Cheshire Constabulary highlights the potential danger of unseen hazards, stressing that seemingly tranquil waters can have strong undercurrents and sudden drops in temperature, which can lead to cold water shock.

Station Manager Ryan Swindells from Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service warns against unsupervised swimming locations, advocating for safer choices: “Choose supervised locations rather than taking risks in open water.”

For detailed water safety advice and more information, residents can visit the Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service website.

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