Head to Hollingworth to stay safe4summer

Hollingworth Lake

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As part of the Safe4Summer campaign, Rochdale Council and Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service are making sure youngsters and parents are aware of the fatal dangers associated with playing in open water.

Firefighters will be re-enacting water rescues at Hollingworth Lake on Saturday (15 August) and giving visitors insights into the hazards of swimming in open water, and how to prevent accidents. 

The aim of the event is to prevent any tragedies similar to the death of a 13 year old boy who drowned in Watergrove Reservoir in Rochdale last year.

Glyn O’Reilly, Fire Service Partnership Liaison Officer for Rochdale, said: “We hope to see as many young people, and parents from Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale bringing their children up to the lake this weekend for what will be a fun and educational session.

“We know that accidents happen, so our lectures and demonstrations are designed to give young people a stark warning about how dangerous it can be swimming in open waters so that maybe in the future they will think twice about doing it. We will be stressing that swimming in our open waters is not a risk worth taking – it can kill!”

Instead, youngsters, parents and guardians are being encouraged to take their children to their local swimming pool, where swimming is now free for under 16s.

Jerry Cragg who heads one of the only two specialist Water Incident Units in the country from Heywood Fire Station, said: “Water in our ponds, lakes and reservoirs is far too cold for people to swim in. I know it’s tempting to take a swim when the weather is hot or it might seem exciting, but the coldness of the water will render even the very strongest of swimmers incapable. Don’t chance it; we do not want any more young lives to be lost in the borough. If you fancy a dip go to your local swimming pool.”

Practical demonstrations and rescues will be taking place on the lake and educational films and talks will be delivered in the visitors centre from 10.30am to 3.30pm.