North Lincolnshire residents are being reminded of the dangers of swimming in open water.
With warmer weather forecast for the bank holiday weekend, increasing numbers of people, especially children, can be tempted to cool off in open water.
This can prove fatal, as they put themselves at risk of drowning.
It is important to teach children to spot and keep away from the dangers of open water:
- Despite warm temperatures above the water, below the surface it can remain extremely cold. The cold water shock of falling into the open water may cause panic and the weight of a person’s clothes will make it more difficult for them to swim
- The depth of the water can be unpredictable and there may be hidden currents
- It can be difficult to get out of open water with steep and slimy uneven banks
- It can be deep with hidden shelves and sharp drop-offs close to the bank’s edge
- There may be hidden objects and hazards below the water surface
- There may be no lifeguards or lifesaving aids nearby
- The water may be polluted with chemicals and may make you ill.
Alongside street drinking, rubbish dumping and cycling in pedestrian areas, open water swimming is one of 19 anti-social behaviours being stamped as part of a new Public Spaces Protection Order.
To protect residents’ safety, swimming in open water in North Lincolnshire is considered a prohibited activity, punishable by a fine of up to £1,000, followed by court proceedings if the fine is not paid.
A wide range of swimming sessions are available to enjoy safely at a choice of five council-operated NL Active facilities across the region.
Find out more on our website.
