PLEASE STAY OUT OF OPEN WATER!

#StaySafe | As temperatures continue to rise, we know how tempting it can be to cool off in open water. But we’re urging everyone in Staffordshire and the wider area to stop and think before entering lakes, reservoirs, rivers or quarries.

Across the country in recent days, there have been several tragic deaths and a number of emergency rescues linked to people entering open water during the heatwave. Cold‑water shock, hidden currents, sudden drops in depth and underwater hazards can turn a quick dip into a life‑threatening situation in seconds.

Even strong swimmers are at serious risk.

Please remember:

🛟 Cold‑water shock can overwhelm the body instantly, even in warm weather  

🛟 Reservoirs and quarries contain hidden machinery, steep sides and dangerous currents  

🛟 Rivers can look calm on the surface but hide fast‑moving undercurrents 

🛟 Unsupervised swimming puts you and rescuers at risk 

We’re asking parents and carers to speak with young people about the dangers, and we urge everyone to choose safer ways to stay cool, such as supervised pools or designated swimming facilities.

Officers from both Staffordshire Police and Staffordshire Fire and Rescue will continue patrolling local hotspots, offering advice and taking action where needed to keep the community safe.