A reservoir is no place for a swim
02 July 2018 17:11
Although tempting during the current spell of high temperatures please do not swim in reservoirs under any circumstances; there are a number of potential hazards at reservoirs that may not be immediately obvious:-
Cold Water Shock
This is the body’s cold shock response when entering cold water. Even water as warm as 25oC can cause hyperventilation leading to drowning. At 15oC blood is diverted to vital organs causing a strain on the heart and failure of co-ordination due to muscle tensioning meaning that even strong swimmers can be unable to reach the shore or grasp throw lines. Some reservoirs remain cold all year round, others may have a variable temperature profile meaning that parts remain cold all year round. This may not be obvious to a visitor or observer from the bank side.
Localised Currents
Reservoirs contain machinery and pipework beneath the surface. This can start without warning and generate currents that can act as a draw on a swimmer.
Deep Water
This might seem obvious but some reservoirs are very deep and may have shelves or areas where the depth changes suddenly. This may not be apparent from the shore.
Mud and Silt
There may be an accumulation of silt on the bottom of the reservoir. This can be a particular hazard when jumping in as it can trap the swimmers feet preventing them from resurfacing.
Debris
There may be submerged branches, plants or other hazards that can trap or entangle a swimmer.
Access and egress
Dams, walls and other manmade structures around the bank side can be slippery and lead to a person falling into the reservoir. There may be concealed or hard objects beneath the surface causing a risk of injury. In some areas the banks may be steep or sheer, in others slippery. This can prevent a person getting out of the reservoir.
Isolation
Whilst their geographical setting is often a large part of their appeal as places to visit, it also presents challenges when emergency services are required. We would recommend that people do not place themselves in danger and stay out of the water.”