Urgent safety warning after people found swimming in Hampton Lakes and Orton Mere in Peterborough
Police in Peterborough have issued an urgent safety warning after receiving multiple reports of residents swimming in open water.
Officers in the city have received multiple reports of people swimming in both Hampton Lakes and Orton Mere Lock over the bank holiday weekend.
With temperatures forecast to rise again to as high as 30C on Thursday (May 28) the force has issued a safety warning.
The dangers of swimming in open water have sadly been brought into focus on a national scale in the past week with the tragic death of Declan Sawyer in Swanholme Lakes in Lincolnshire.
Cambridgeshire Police said: “On Tuesday, we received multiple reports of people swimming in Hampton Lakes and Orton Mere Lock.
“Sadly, there have been recent incidents elsewhere in the country where people have drowned in open water. These environments can be far more dangerous than they appear.
“With the temperature set to rise again tomorrow, we understand the temptation to cool off. However, open water such as lakes, rivers and locks can pose serious risks, including cold water shock, strong currents and hidden hazards beneath the surface.
“Please don’t take the risk.
“We’d also urge parents and carers to speak to children about staying safe around water.
“For more advice on staying safe, visit Cambridgeshire Fire & Rescue Service website: https://orlo.uk/0nwYO.”