Warning over safety around borough’s open water
Telford and Wrekin Council has issued strong advice to people considering open water swimming this weekend.
Previously, people have been jumped in the dangerous Blue Pool near the centre of Telford that has clay and debris at the bottom, posing a serious risk of injury and cold water shock.
Video courtesy of RNLI.
Council officers are mostly concerned about those who consume alcohol and drugs before swimming and hope that everyone will be looking out for each other when near open water.
The Anti social behaviour team will be patrolling known hot spots areas and educating people about dangers in order to prevent a serious incident.
Blue Pool was once a pit which provided clay for the Randlay Brickworks and contains the remains of buildings and machinery, according to information provided by Stirchley and Brookside Parish Council.
The Met Office has issued a rare amber weather warning for extreme heat for Sunday, Monday and Tuesday, with maximum temperatures potentially threatening Norfolk's record high of 36.5C at the start of next week - which was set in July 2019.
•Keep away from the water's edge and closely supervise young children at all times.
•Never swim in open water when there are no life-guards present.
•Don't jump or dive into open water; submerged objects such as rocks may not be visible and can cause serious injuries.
•Be aware that there may be strong currents, even where the water surface appears calm.
•Weirs, locks, pipes and sluices are especially dangerous.
•Take note of warning signs, safety information or flags near the water's edge.
•Get out of the water as soon as you start to feel cold.
•Water can be very cold even in summer, causing cramp and breathing difficulties – these can affect even the strongest swimmer.
•Wear the recommended safety equipment for your activity, e.g life jackets/helmets.
•Always wear a life-jacket or other buoyancy aid for water-side activities such as angling or boating
•Alcohol may impair your ability and judgment; never go swimming under the influence of alcohol
Quarries are dangerous places, even for the most competent of swimmers. The water can be very deep and cold, putting you at risk of hypothermia and cold shock, which can prevent your muscles from functioning properly. Loose, slippery sides can make it difficult to climb out, while unseen machinery and obstacles beneath the water can cause serious life-changing injuries or even death.
Why not swim in one of the council’s four, 25 metre length pools instead, where adults aged under 25 can swim for free, people aged over 50, costs £1 visit the website for details. During the school holidays children can swim for £1.
For further advice around water safety try a free water safety course visit the Royal National Lifeboat Institue website or watch the RNLI’s ‘Float to Live’ video and share with friends and family.
