Teens warned of swimming peril

A hard-hitting Facebook campaign showing floral tributes left to a drowned teenager launches this month, to urge young people not to risk their lives by cooling off in reservoirs.

Young people are being urged not to risk their lives by cooling off in reservoirs.

Eight people have tragically drowned in North West reservoirs over the past four years, and water company United Utilities is determined to hammer home the message that reservoir bathing can be fatal.

A campaign showing floral tributes left to a drowned teenager will target Facebook users in the North West over the summer.

Mark Byard, United Utilities' health and safety manager said: "The campaign shows the tragic aftermath of a reservoir drowning, and the lifelong pain it causes family and friends. Although the imagery and accounts in the ads are fictitious, they are based closely on real incidents.

"Reservoirs can seem inviting - particularly on hot days - but cooling off in them can be deadly. The water is so cold that people's bodies can quickly shut down, and even the strongest swimmers can find themselves in difficulties. Hidden currents and ledges can make it extremely hard to get out.

"So far this summer, we have already had several 'near misses' in our reservoirs. With the school holidays now in full swing, we want to remind people to stay safe, by staying out." 

Reservoirs – The facts:

• Reservoir temperatures rarely get above 10 degrees, even in summer. They are cold enough to take your breath away, make your arms and legs numb, and induce hypothermia.
• Reservoirs are often extremely deep, with sudden drops you cannot see.
• There may be hidden currents from water pipes below the surface.
• Hidden obstacles, such as machinery for water treatment, broken glass or other rubbish, is commonplace.
• It's hard to get out. The sides of reservoirs are often very steep.
• Invisible algae can often build up at the water edge, producing toxins that cause skin rashes and stomach upsets.
• Reservoirs are often in isolated places. If you get into trouble, there may be no one around to help.