Emergency services have issued a warning to people planning to swim in Cumbria’s lakes and rivers during the warm spell.
West Cumbria Search and Rescue said: “The Lake District is home to some beautiful lakes and rivers but they all pose a danger when swimming.
“Even in the height of summer, our waters can still be extremely cold and can pose a significant cold water shock even the best of swimmers can be overcome by cold water shock.”
Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service advised people to be wary of hidden dangers under the water and said even strong swimmers could find themselves in difficulty.
Earlier this week, Longtown Fire Station said: “It is very early for us to be putting out a message such as this but it has come to our attention that folk are already in the river in Longtown.
“Yes, it looks nice and sunny and warm out there, but the river won’t be and cold water shock is an absolute killer. We don’t want to be searching the Esk for anybody’s loved ones, so please, if you want a swim, stick to a swimming pool, it is not the time or place to be in the river.”
West Cumbria Search and Rescue said if people do decide to take a dip in a lake, tarn or river, it was important to know what to do.
It said: “It’s also important to make sure children only swim when supervised and that there is adequate communication in the event of a emergency – for example someone with a fully charged mobile phone who is not in the water and can ask for help immediately in an emergency by dialling 999 for the emergency services.
“It’s also very useful to download what3words and give this information to the operator so emergency services can find your location quickly.
“Never enter the water to perform a rescue as you could become another casualty. Stay calm and give information about the float to live protocol to the person in trouble.”
Float to live
If you found yourself struggling in the water unexpectedly, your instinct would tell you to swim hard.
But cold water shock could make you gasp uncontrollably. Then you could breathe in water and drown. Instead, you should Float to Live.
How to float to live
- Tilt your head back with your ears submerged
- Relax and try to breathe normally
- Move your hands to help you stay afloat
- It’s okay if your legs sink as we all float differently
- Spread your arms and legs to improve stability
If someone else is in trouble in the water
- Call 999 for the emergency services
- Tell the person to float on their back
- Throw them something that floats
