North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue warn over dangers of open water

People across North Yorkshire are being warned of the dangers of entering open water - as temperatures look set to soar.

Since 2014 - there has been 22 drownings recorded in our County.

Adam Farrow from North Yorkshire fire and rescue: "Largely what we are finding from reviews of these incidents, roughly half of these people never intended on entering the water on that day, so they were going into the water unprepared."

"It could be that they have accidentally entered the water, fallen in, but it could also be that they went to a local beauty spot and they were tempted by the heat to go into the water that day. So it wasn't something that they planned, it was a spontaneous event for them."

"If in doubt, stay out, if you are not sure if it is safe to be where you are, just stay out, if you are not sure if there are any biological hazards or under the water hazards, just stay out and do something else."

North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue have also issued the following safety advice:

Never let older children swim in unsupervised areas like quarries, canals or ponds.

Never interfere with lifesaving equipment – you never know when it might be needed

Never enter the water under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Always pay attention to warning signs and flags

Always look out for people you are with, make sure they are safe

Always take care when walking or running near water, especially when the paths are muddy or icy

There are often hidden dangers beneath the surface such as plants, bikes, trolleys and broken glass

Dogs generally get out of the water themselves, do not be tempted to go in after them – if you have a concern ring 999 and ask for the fire service

If you see someone in difficulty:

Shout for help and dial 999 and ask for the Fire Service at inland water sites or the Coast Guard if you’re at the beach.

Reach with a long stick, a scarf, clothes or anything else. Crouch or lie down to avoid being pulled in.

Throw a rope – you can then pull in the person. Otherwise throw something that will float – a ball, a plastic bottle or a lifebuoy.

Do not jump in to try to save them.

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.