NO SWIMMING AT DOVESTONES RESERVOIR

Dear Residents.

We are asking for your support in keeping our community safe.

Today, the Saddleworth Neighbourhood Team responded to a Grade 1 incident at Dovestones Reservoir after a group of teenagers were seen entering the water. This level of response means officers must travel at speed, placing themselves, other road users, and members of the public at risk in order to reach the scene as quickly as possible.

On arrival, the youths had made their way to a secluded high vantage point, continuing to put themselves in danger by both entering and jumping into the water.

We need to be absolutely clear: no one should enter the water at Dovestones Reservoir.

Why reservoir water is so dangerous.

Reservoirs are not like lakes, rivers, or swimming pools. Even on warm days, they contain extremely cold water, sudden depth changes, and powerful underwater currents created by hidden machinery and pipework. These currents can pull even strong swimmers under the surface without warning.

Common risks include:

These dangers have tragically claimed lives in recent years. We do not want to see another family go through that heartbreak.

A message to parents and carers.

Please speak to your children, especially teenagers, about the risks of entering reservoir waters. Many young people underestimate how dangerous these environments are, and peer pressure can make risky decisions feel harmless in the moment.

We understand that young people want to enjoy the outdoors, and we want them to do so safely. But the risks at Dovestones Reservoir far outweigh any moment of fun. Our priority is preventing harm and avoiding another tragedy, we are not the ‘Fun Police’. 

Thank you for your continued support in keeping Saddleworth safe.

Should you see anyone in trouble in the water, please contact 999 immediately. 

Regards

PS 1650 Andy Holian – Saddleworth & Lees NBO Sergeant. 

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