Public warned of dangers of open water swimming

Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service are warning people of the dangers of swimming in rivers, ponds, or lakes during the summer.

They say firefighters are regularly called to help people, especially children and young people, who "get into difficulty when cooling off in open water".

Water may contain strong undercurrents and be icy cold even though it may appear calm and feel warm as the surface.

People are advised to adhere to the following tips in order to keep safe when near open water:

• Stay out of the water if you have been drinking alcoholic drinks

• Always watch your child while at the beach, lake or other natural bodies of water

• Never let older children swim in unsupervised areas like quarries, canals or ponds

• Do not swim near motor boats, jet skis or other power vehicles

• Never interfere with lifesaving equipment - you might need it yourself

• Learn to spot and keep away from dangerous water

• Take safety advice - heed notices which warn you of the danger

• Children should always visit open water sites with an adult