Rising temperatures have led to a plea to ensure that people stay away from open water at Colwick Country Park during the half-term holiday.
According to the Met Office, the weather across Gedling borough could hit the mid-20s during the school break next week.
This has prompted the council running the park to issue a warning after young people were spotted using a nearby stretch of river during the heatwave last year.
Nottingham City Council said: “In hot weather it may be tempting to take a dip in the park’s lakes or the river. Please don’t as there are hidden dangers which can be fatal.
“Swimming is not allowed in the park unless it’s part of an organised session.”
A spokesman for Notts Fire and Rescue echoed the warning: “In warmer weather, you might think that taking a dip in a river or reservoir is the perfect way to cool down, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, cooling off in open water is not cool.
“What might look tranquil and peaceful can be hiding dangers that might take you by surprise, such as strong currents, a cold temperature and items below the surface.”
Water safety advice
Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service have issued the following water safety advice…
If you see someone in the water:
Would you know what to do if you saw someone struggling in water? Would you go in and save them? Would you assume they can swim and think nothing more of it?
The answer is neither.
NEVER enter the water to save someone as this can put your life at risk. Instead, here is what you should do:
- Call for the emergency services:
You should always call 999 immediately and ask for the fire service and ambulance. If you are by the coast, make sure that you ask for the Coastguard.
- Location, location, location:
We will need as much information on your location as possible to be able to send fire crews to the emergency. You can help us by looking out for landmarks, signs or bridges, or you can use the What Three Words service to find out your location.
- Don’t leave us hanging:
Never hang up as this will only make responding to the emergency more difficult for us. Instead, make sure you stay on the line and our Fire Control team will be able to talk you through what you can do to help. It is always a good idea to let the person in the water know that you have phoned 999 as this may help keep them calm knowing that help is on its way.
- Encourage the casualty to float:
The best piece of advice to give someone in the water is telling them to try and float. Instinct will naturally tell them to swim, but even the strongest swimmers can be overcome by currents in the water. If there is lifesaving equipment close by, such as a throwline or life buoy, follow the instructions given, or ask the emergency call handler about what to do.
- Fight the urge:
We know that it is human nature to want to help in any way you can, but we cannot stress enough that you should NEVER enter the water to save someone else. Even the strongest swimmers can be overcome by cold water shock and currents.
If you are in the water:
If you find yourself in the water, we want you to remember the phrase Float To Live.
This is because although instinct will tell you to swim, it is best to put your energy into staying afloat. So if you are in water, remember the steps below:
- Fight the urge to swim and try to stay calm.
- Lie back and keep you airways clear, push your stomach up and extend your limbs, moving your hands and feet to help you float.
- Try to control your gasping reflex from the cold water shock, and once your breathing is controlled, only then should you call for help.
- Remember, do as little as possible and float to live.
