Swim youths spark safety alert
PEOPLE are being urged not to go swimming in reservoirs or other bodies of water in Lancashire as hot weather continues across the region.
Police in Rossendale say they have had to deal with youths swimming in Cowm Reservoir, Whitworth.
Officers received calls from concerned onlookers on Saturday.
The youths were told to leave the area immediately and police also explained the dangers of swimming in reservoirs and quarries.
No injuries were reported.
It is one of several similar incidents reported across Lancashire in recent weeks.
Children in Pendle were caught swimming in the water-filled, disused quarry in the Colne Golf Club area of the borough.
Around 100 people were also reported to be jumping into the Jamestone Quarry at Haslingden.
Further hot weather is forecast in the days ahead and officers are urging parents to know where their children are due to the dangers of open water swimming.
A Rossendale Police spokesperson said: “Today we have received calls regarding youths swimming in Cowm Reservoir, Whitworth.
“Officers have been to the Reservoir to ask youths to leave the water and explain the dangers of swimming in reservoirs and quarrys.
“Although some may think this is harmless and that the youths are doing nothing wrong this in fact extremely dangerous.
“We understand the weather is nice and that the water is appealing in high temperatures but please refrain from entering open water.
“You may be an experienced and strong swimmer who will be able to cope with the coldness of the water but unfortunately every year there are numerous of young people who lose their life due to swimming in reservoirs.”