THE HEAT might be on but sunbathers are being urged to stay on dry land and not be tempted to cool down in the boroughs water ways.
A dip might seem inviting, particularly on a hot day, but the icy water can be lethal and swimmers are being warned by United Utilities to swim in properly supervised pools.
Each year, despite the number of tragic drownings, swimmers still succumb to the temptation to test out the water with figures showing that about 300 people a year drown in rivers, lakes and reservoirs.
According to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents teenagers and young men are most at risk.
In the case of young men particularly, a few pints can impair judgement leading them to swim out until their bodies are suddenly gripped by cold.
In a reflex action the body cuts the blood supply to the arms and legs preventing swimming, causing people to sink and then drown.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article