South West Water warns swimmers away from reservoirs in the heat

The water looks still, cool and inviting. South West Water wants people to understand what sits beneath the surface before they go anywhere near it.

South West Water is urging people not to swim in reservoirs and lakes as hot weather continues this week.

Why the water is more dangerous than it looks

South West Water is reminding visitors that its reservoirs are active operational sites. Beneath the calm surface they can contain deep, cold water, hidden machinery and strong currents.

That combination is what makes them so risky. A reservoir is not a swimming spot. It is a working part of the water network, and the things that make it work are the things that can catch a swimmer out.

A red warning for extreme heat

The Met Office has announced a red weather warning for Extreme Heat in parts of the country on Wednesday and Thursday. It means an exceptional spell of hot and humid weather is expected across the area, with impacts to the general population highly likely.

Hot weather is exactly when reservoirs start to look tempting. It is also when South West Water says the danger is at its highest.

What South West Water is asking people to do

Richie Adams, South West Water’s Head of Networks, said: “We know our reservoirs can look very tempting in hot weather, but they are operational sites and it is never safe to enter the water. Hidden machinery, strong currents and the shock of deep, cold water can all pose serious risks, which is why we’re asking people to enjoy these spaces safely from the shore and follow any safety advice or temporary closures in place.”

The message is to keep to the shore, take notice of any safety advice, and respect any temporary closures while the hot weather lasts.