Water Warning in Warm Weather from Staffordshire Fire Service

As the weather warms up again Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service is reminding people of the dangers of swimming in open, unsupervised lakes and pools following a call from an off-duty firefighter earlier today reporting children swimming at Minnie Pit Pool in Halmer End.

The Newcastle Targeted Response Vehicle was sent to the pool where firefighters found a mother and two young children by the water. Firefighters warned the family about the dangers of swimming in unsupervised water and are now extending the warning to all local people.

Last year an 18 year old man tragically died in Goldendale Pool in Tunstall, after getting into difficulty.

Head of Risk Reduction for Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service, Ian Sloss said: “When the sun is shining it may be tempting to go for a dip – whilst outdoor pools and lakes may look appealing though they often have hidden dangers, such as strong undercurrents and undergrowth not visible from the surface.

“If you see someone get into difficulty ring 999 immediately and ask for the Fire Service. Make use of any buoyancy aids available but never enter the water to rescue them yourself as you too may get into difficulty. If the person goes underwater pinpoint out their exact location to firefighters on their arrival.

“Our Firefighters have equipment to deal with this type of incident and Newcastle and Tamworth both have boats however this shouldn’t detract from the point that people shouldn’t risk their lives by swimming in unsupervised lakes and pools.”