Seven people have died in open water incidents across the UK during the recent heatwave, prompting police to issue an urgent warning about the dangers of swimming in reservoirs, rivers, canals, and ponds.
Latest Deaths
On Saturday evening (June 27), a 15-year-old boy was recovered from Cowbury Reservoir in Stalybridge, Greater Manchester. Earlier that morning, the body of Brody Leach, 22, was recovered from the River Severn in Shrewsbury, Shropshire. A second 15-year-old boy also died after getting into trouble at Testwood Lakes near Southampton.
Police Statement
Greater Manchester Police Chief Inspector Helen Baxter said: “Yesterday’s events are nothing short of devastating and my thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the young boy who sadly lost his life in such awful circumstances. We are confident that there are no suspicious circumstances and that this is such a sad reminder of the dangers of entering open water. We remind the public to please avoid being tempted to cool off in reservoirs, rivers, canals or ponds. We all want to enjoy the warm weather; please make sure you do so in a safe way.”
Other Incidents
Police confirmed the death of a 69-year-old man in Clacton on Friday, and the body of a woman was recovered from a pool in Sandwell Valley Country Park in West Bromwich. Earlier in the week, a 50-year-old man was pronounced dead at Aberavon beach on the south coast of Wales, and a teenage boy died after getting into trouble in a lake in Syston, Leicestershire.
RNLI Advice
Samantha Hughes, the National Water Safety Partner at the RNLI, said: “It’s important to remember that the water is still cold. Entering it unexpectedly can lead to cold water shock, causing a sudden increase in breathing and heart rate, which may trigger panic. If you find yourself struggling in the water, remember to Float to Live: tilt your head back so your ears are submerged, relax and control your breathing. You may need to gently use your hands to help you stay afloat, and it’s ok if your legs sink—everyone floats differently. Where possible, always choose a lifeguarded beach, and swim between the red and yellow flags. In a coastal emergency remember to call 999 for the coastguard.”
