AS the dry spell continues, Yorkshire Water is warning people not to be tempted to swim in its reservoirs.
Reservoirs may seem like a good place to take a swim to cool down, but they are extremely dangerous due to the chilling temperatures and the strong undercurrents beneath the surface.
Yorkshire Water's recreation and catchment manager, Geoff Lomas, said: “What began as a day out in the sunshine can turn to tragedy within minutes if you decide to take a dip.
“Most people won’t realise that, as soon as your body feels the shock of cold water, its natural defences kick in.
“The first sign of trouble is hyperventilation but, if the swimmer stays in the water, the body will gradually shut down to protect the vital organs and muscles will go into cramp and the victim will be unable to remain afloat and will sink below the surface.”
Yorkshire Water has worked with the Hambleton Community Safety Partnership to develop a hard-hitting DVD which re-enacts a drowning.
More details about the Dying To Be Cool campaign are on the company website at yorkshirewater.com/safety
