Open Water Safety Warning

Open Water Safety Warning

Dear Resident

Within the last week we have had reports of members of the public swimming in the lake at Birkacre and in Heapey and Yarrow Reservoirs. With the warmer weather, people across Chorley may be tempted to cool off in local rivers, lakes, reservoirs and quarries, but please be aware OPEN WATER CAN BE EXTREMELY DANGEROUS, EVEN FOR STRONG SWIMMERS.

KEY RISKS

Cold water shock - Water temperatures remain cold and can cause gasping, panic and loss of swimming ability within seconds

Strong currents and sudden depth changes - These can quickly pull you into difficulty

Hidden hazards - Rocks, debris, weeds and rubbish may not be visable beneath the surface

Difficult exits - steep or slippery banks can make it very hard to get out of the water

No Lifeguards - Sites are unsupervised, this means help is not immediately available

Please

Don't swim in open water unless it is a designated, lifeguarded location

Don't jump or dive straight in

If you see someone in trouble, call 999 immediately.

Please enjoy Chorley and this fine weather safely

Chorley Neighbourhood Policing Team

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Message Sent By
Liz Coleman
(Lancashire Constabulary, PCSO 7552, Chorley)