Warning for swimmers ahead of Bank Holiday

The fire service have been carrying out rescue training. Credit: ITV Border

Cumbria Fire and Rescue service is warning people to stay safe around lakes and rivers ahead of the Bank Holiday weekend and school half term.

It's often a busy time for the emergency services as the lakes look inviting in the sun, but can be colder than expected in the deeper water.

Cold water shock can stop someone from being able to swim quickly, so the fire service is urging people to stay close to the shore and know how they'll get help if they come into trouble.

The fire service have been carrying out rescue training. Credit: ITV Border
The fire service have been carrying out rescue training. Credit: ITV Border

Over 300 people drowned in the UK in the last recorded year, 2014. It's one of the main causes of accidental death in the UK.

Almost half of them (44%) were just doing an everyday activity like walking or running near water.

Senior officers say if someone gets into difficulty it's often too late by the time they arrive, so they're urging people to take the following advice.

  • Never fool around near water - you might trip and fall in

  • Take care on riverbanks - they may be slippery or unstable

  • Go with a friend if you're going swimming, fishing or boating

  • They can help - or get help - if you're in trouble in difficult water