Police have issued a warning about the dangers of open water swimming after officers found dozens of children and young people swimming at Keevil’s Weir during the recent spell of hot weather.
Calne Police said officers attended the area near Castlefields Park yesterday, after receiving reports of people swimming and jumping into the water.
PCSO Sheppard attended the scene where around 20 to 30 children and older youths were found in the water.
Police say the location has become increasingly popular during hot weather but warned that the weir and surrounding river areas can be extremely dangerous.
PCSO Mark Cook said: “While we do not wish to spoil anyone’s enjoyment of the fine weather, we would like to give a timely reminder of the dangers associated with attempting to swim or bathe in the weir and surrounding stretches of water.
“The weir itself has extremely strong and often unseen undercurrents. Combined with submerged objects and steep riverbanks, this makes the area particularly hazardous.
“In addition, despite several days of hot weather, the water remains extremely cold and could cause cold water shock.”
The warning comes as several fatal incidents involving open water swimming have been reported across the country during the recent heatwave, many involving children and teenagers. Water safety organisations have warned that even during very hot weather, rivers and lakes remain cold enough to trigger cold water shock.
PCSO Cook added: “Although we have thankfully only recently received a small number of reports of incidents locally, other areas of the country have unfortunately seen tragedies involving both children and adults swimming in open water. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected.
“Several years ago, we requested that lifesaving equipment be installed locally for emergency use should it ever be required. Although this equipment remains in place, it could still take emergency services longer to reach some of the more isolated locations.
“Due to the increase in visitors to our waterways, and with the school holidays approaching, we will be increasing patrols in this and other locations.
“If you intend to visit this location, please follow the safety warning signs, look after one another, let parents or guardians know where you are going, and take any rubbish home with you.”
Police say patrols around local waterways will increase as warmer weather continues and temperatures remain high.
Photo - Calne Police
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