Fire Service emphasise dangers of open water
11 August 2008
Our Water Incident UnitFollowing a number of serious water incidents in the County over recent weeks, and with the hot weather set to continue, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service has issued a safety warning emphasising the dangers of swimming in open water.
County Fire Officer Barry Dixon said “It is an almost inevitable fact that a spate of hot weather usually means we will find ourselves attending incidents involving someone who has got into difficulty whilst playing on or near water. I know it’s tempting for people but it is all too easy for them to get into trouble. If you fancy a dip then go to your local swimming pool or supervised water sports facility where it’s safe.”
The reasons why people should avoid swimming in open water are
- There is no supervision (lifeguards), should people get into trouble.
- The water is often a lot colder than people expect and it can impact on peoples physical capabilities.
- Often people can’t find a suitable place to get out of the water.
- There is no way of knowing what lies beneath the water surface, shopping trolleys, opened tin cans, broken bottles are all examples of what has been found in the past.
Throughout the summer months you can find details of organised water activities across the county on the www.safe4summer.com or on this website in the stay safe section.
Editor’s notes;
- Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service operates two specialist water incident units, based at Eccles and Heywood, operated by firefighters specially trained and equipped to respond to water incidents.
- At water incidents 1st May - 5th Aug 08 - 14 people and 6 animals rescued.
Press enquires
All enquiries regarding this press statement should be made to:
The Media Liaison Officer
Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service Headquarters
146 Bolton Road
Swinton
Manchester
M27 8US
Telephone: 0161 608 4090/1
Fax: 0161 608 4095