Stay Safe Around Reservoirs This Summer

Welsh Water run their Reservoir Safety campaign every year - during periods of warm weather. On a hot summer’s day, the cool waters of the local reservoir may seem placid and inviting. So much so that every year, people across Wales venture into the water for a swim to cool off. This casual decision can prove fatal. Swimming in reservoirs is dangerous. Even on the warmest day, freezing temperatures, deadly currents and hidden machinery can drag the strongest swimmer under.

Previous experience and research indicate that males aged between 13-30 are typically the most likely people to enter the water at reservoirs.

Unauthorised swimming in uncontrolled areas can and has been fatal, so is never allowed.

Reservoirs can be full of hidden dangers, including automatic machinery in the water that can operate at any time, and incredibly strong currents, that can pull under even the strongest swimmers. That’s why it’s best to only swim at the permitted reservoir sites, at designated times and locations.

The water also has freezing temperatures which can send swimmers into cold-water shock and there is a reduced chance of rescue in some areas due to the remote location of many reservoirs, often with little or no mobile reception.

If you are in difficulty in the water, ‘Float To Live’ – this means to relax and float on your back with your ears submerged in the water until the effects of cold water shock pass. You can them swim to safety or shout for help.

If you see someone else in difficulty in the water in a reservoir, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Fire Service, tell the person in the water to ‘Float To Live’ and throw them something that floats. Never go into the water to attempt a rescue yourself.

We encourage all parents and carers to talk to their children about the dangers of swimming in reservoirs and the importance of choosing safe, supervised places to swim. By working together and sharing these important safety messages, we can help ensure everyone enjoys a safe and happy summer.