Heading on a family trip out this weekend? Driving to the coast or a nearby beauty spot in the Yorkshire area?
Whilst we really want each one of you to make the most of the British summer, we are urging you to make sure you enjoy the sun safely, especially when around water.
Superintendent Lee Edwards said: “Across the Yorkshire region we have some fantastic rivers, lakes, ponds and beaches which many families with children and young people will be making the most of over the next few weeks and throughout the summer holidays.
“Whilst these are great places to visit and make lifelong memories, it is important to take care around the water to ensure that your day out is memorable for the right reasons.
“In this warm weather it is can be tempting to try and cool off by taking a dip in open waters. While these locations may seem ideal places for a spot of swimming, jumping into open water can lead to tragedy.
“Bodies of open water come with numerous risks, including cold water shock, hidden dangers and unknown depths.
“Some of these open waters can be extremely hazardous with scaffolding and discarded items such as shopping trollies hidden out of sight beneath the surface, yesterday (Thursday 14 July) the team recovered some really dangerous items submerged beneath the water at site in Tickton (pictured below).
“It’s important to also be mindful that open waters could pose a health risk from contamination due to sewage and wildlife.
“We really want the residents to safely enjoy the facilities that the region has to offer, therefore we urge people to take precautions to ensure the safety of themselves, their families and those around them.”
If you’re heading to the beach this weekend, here are some key tips to remember whilst you visit to make sure you can remain safe whilst still having fun:
• Only ever swim between red and yellow flags, as these are the areas patrolled by lifeguards on those beaches that have them.
• Think twice about using inflatables in the water – as it is easy for them to be blown out to sea quickly. If there’s an orange windsock flying, it’s especially dangerous.
• Be aware of tide times, to ensure you don’t get cut off.
If someone falls into deep water, call 999. If you are near the coast ask for the coastguard, if you are inland ask for the fire service and ambulance.
Yesterday (Thursday 14 July) the team recovered some really dangerous items submerged beneath the water at site in Tickton.
