Parents are being urged to speak to their children about water safety
It comes after two bodies were found in West Yorkshire's open water yesterday (19th July)
Water safety experts are sending out a fresh warning to people in West Yorkshire, after two bodies were found in the open waters across the region.
Yesterday, Wakefield Council confirmed that the body of a man was recovered from the lake at Pugney's Country Park.
Emergency services attended on Sunday at around 1:15pm after reports of a male in difficulty in the water.
In a statement, West Yorkshire police said:
"At approximately 1.25pm today (Monday), the body of a male was found in the lake at Pugneys Country Park in Wakefield. Enquiries are now ongoing to identify the deceased."
Cllr Michael Graham, Wakefield Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Sport, said:
“Our thoughts and sympathies are with the family and friends of the person involved. This tragic incident is a stark reminder of the very real dangers of swimming in open water. We ask everyone to keep themselves safe and urge people not to swim in places that are not specifically created for swimming.”
Pugneys Country Park closed on Sunday, but is expected to re-open today to the public.
Cllr Graham added:
“Unfortunately, this sad news is not an isolated incident and other deaths have occurred across the country this weekend following hot weather.
“We want everyone to be aware of the risks of cooling off in open water such as ponds, lakes and quarries. There are often hidden dangers underneath the surface, such as discarded waste that can entrap people, as well as slippery rocks and changes in water depth. Water can also be dangerously cold when it gets deeper.
“Please remember to call 999 immediately if you see anyone in danger.”