Although temperatures are set to be high this summer, local residents are strongly discouraged from swimming in open bodies of water due to the high risk of drowning.
Around 85% of accidental drownings occur at open water sites. Many of these are due to a lack of knowledge and understanding of open water safety.
Earlier last month (31/05), a man tragically died after swimming in the River Great Ouse in Olney. Emergency services were called at 17:20 after receiving reports that the man had gone missing. Although he was soon located, he sadly died later in hospital.
Since the unfortunate incident, local authorities have published a list of dos and don'ts for swimming in open water:
What NOT to do
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Never swim, even where allowed, after drinking alcohol
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Avoid walking on routes near water if you have been drinking alcohol
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Don’t dive or jump straight into open water – this can cause potentially fatal cold water shock even on the warmest day
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If you find yourself unexpectedly in the water, don’t panic – extend your arms and legs out and float on your back until the effects of cold water shock pass
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Never enter the water to try to rescue someone – call 999 and ask for the fire and rescue service if inland and the coastguard if you are on the coast
What TO do
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The safest place to swim is in a supervised swimming pool. The water is clean, clear and warm, and there are lifeguards on hand if something goes wrong
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Be aware of the risk of cold-water shock, a physical response by your body when entering cold water, which can affect your breathing, reduce your muscle ability and can even lead to a heart attack
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Warn your children of the risks, and know where they are when they are out playing
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At home, keep small children away from ponds and pools and make sure they are supervised in the bath
If you witness people swimming in any local lakes, ponds, rivers or canals, call Thames Valley Police immediately on 101. However, in an emergency, you should always call 999.
READ MORE: Man dies after being pulled from River Great Ouse in Milton Keynes town
