Stay safe and don't risk a swim

With World Drowning Prevention Day being observed for the first time on Sunday (July 25) South East Water is warning as the school holidays begin that although reservoirs may look like the perfect place to cool off during the current spell of hot weather, they are full of concealed dangers.

Although they may look inviting, reservoirs conceal hazards such as freezing temperatures, strong currents and hidden machinery says South East Water which owns Ardingly Reservoir, near Haywards Heath, Sussex, and a second one at Arlington near Eastbourne.

The company’s reservoirs can hold up to 8,300 million litres of untreated water and are uneven in depth creating a risk to anyone jumping into the water or swimming from the banks. Cold water, debris and pumping equipment on the floor of the reservoirs adds to the dangers.

Chris Lunn, Head of Health, Safety and Quality at South East Water said: “Reservoirs are beautiful places, especially when the sun is shining, however they are not always safe for swimming. It is important that with the start of the school holidays people are aware of how dangerous swimming in reservoirs can be.

“If you do have an interest in swimming in reservoirs please make sure it is part of an organised open water swimming event where appropriate monitoring, support and rescue are available.”