A Bedford Borough councillor has urged young people to think carefully about the dangers of open water after reports of people jumping into the River Great Ouse in Great Barford during the recent hot weather.
Cllr Phillippa Martin-Moran-Bryant (Conservative/Great Barford) said rivers and lakes can appear inviting during warm temperatures, but warned that what may seem like harmless fun can quickly become dangerous.
Her appeal comes as emergency services and water safety organisations continue to highlight the risks associated with swimming and jumping into open water during periods of hot weather.
Extreme heat
A rare red extreme heat warning has been issued for Bedford, and much of England and Wales, with forecasters warning temperatures could reach between 38C and 40C later this week.
The warning, issued by the UK Health Security Agency and the Met Office, covers Bedfordshire, the East of England, London, the South East, the East Midlands, West Midlands, South West and Wales from Wednesday, 24 June.
Speaking about water safety, Cllr Martin-Moran-Bryant said: “Summer should be a time for young people to enjoy themselves safely, but we must be clear that jumping into open water, especially from bridges or other high structures, can be extremely dangerous.
“I am urging everyone to talk openly about water safety and to think twice before entering rivers to cool off.
“If there is a warning sign, it is there for a good reason, so please pay attention to it, as what may seem like harmless fun can quickly become a serious emergency.”
Water dangers
Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service warns that even on hot days, rivers, lakes and other open water can remain surprisingly cold.
Entering cold water suddenly can trigger cold water shock, causing involuntary gasping, rapid breathing, panic and difficulty swimming. The service says these effects can affect even strong swimmers.
The fire service also warns that open water presents hazards not found in swimming pools, including strong currents, hidden obstacles, changing depths and poor visibility.
Jumping from bridges or other structures carries additional risks, with injuries possible from the impact of hitting the water or from unseen objects beneath the surface.
National water safety campaigns also advise anyone who unexpectedly enters deep water to try to float on their back, keep calm and control their breathing while waiting for help.
Cllr Martin-Moran-Bryant added, “What may seem like harmless fun can quickly become a serious emergency.”
Respecting communities
The councillor is also urging visitors to treat Great Barford and other popular beauty spots across Bedford Borough with respect.
She said many of the borough’s riverside locations, parks and green spaces attract visitors from across the region but are also places where people live and work.
While most visitors behave responsibly, concerns have been raised about littering, inconsiderate parking and anti-social behaviour.
Cllr Martin-Moran-Bryant said she is working with Bedford Borough Council’s Community Safety Team, highways officers, Great Barford Parish Council and other partners to address ongoing issues.
She said: “Our parks, riversides and open spaces are there for everyone to enjoy, but we all have a responsibility to look after them.
“I would ask people visiting our community green spaces to take their litter home, park safely and considerately, and respect the people who live nearby.
“The majority of visitors are respectful, but the actions of a small minority can spoil these spaces for everyone.
“I am working with the Community Safety Team, the Council’s Highways Team, the Parish Council and other local partners to tackle nuisance behaviour and keep my ward’s community areas clean and welcoming.”
Safety message
Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service encourages people to enjoy rivers and lakes safely by avoiding jumping into open water, paying attention to warning signs and supervising children near water at all times.
The service also advises anyone who sees somebody in difficulty in the water not to enter the water themselves, but to call 999 and ask for the appropriate emergency service, while attempting to throw something that floats to the casualty if it is safe to do so.
