Open water warning from Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service as extreme heat continues
Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service is urging the public to not give into temptation around open water during the heatwave.
Water safety, especially with young people, is an area of concern for the fire service and, during May half-term alone, 19 people across the country lost their lives, including 14 teenagers.
Darren Carson, prevention team leader, said it is critical parents across Northamptonshire help to deliver life-saving messages.
He said: “We want to empower parents and carers during the heatwave to have conversations with their young people about only swimming in water where there’s a lifeguard.
“We know young people will want to have fun and cool off but it’s important not to bow to peer pressure and avoid swimming in spots that are not designated.
“Open water in the UK can pose substantial risk and, unsafe behaviour, like jumping in, could cause cold water shock.”
Other unseen dangers, such as strong currents or objects under the water, could also mean swimmers get into danger.
Young people had been seen swimming in the River Nene at Wellingborough Embankment – the same spot in 2024 where 17-year-old Ronalds Abele died after getting into difficulty in the water.
Speaking last week, North Northamptonshire's director of public health, Dr Jane Bethea, said: “This has left me extremely concerned and has acted as a strong reminder of the dangers the water can present.
"I urge you all to listen when I say that I advise strongly against swimming, paddling or jumping in all undesignated waterways.”
Anyone who sees a person in distress in the water is asked to call 999 immediately, tell the person to float on their backs and throw a buoyancy aid instead of getting into the water themselves.
The fire service is also advising that people download the What3Words app to describe the exact location.
The fire service’s prevention teams have been visiting schools over the past month to deliver talks to students about associated risks when swimming in open water.
Targeted messaging has been sent directly to teachers and safeguarding leads for West and North Northamptonshire Council to share with parents.
Only today (June 24), the fire service has been given unique praise from the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) to recognise their excellence in delivering the waterside responder scheme in Northamptonshire, which has saved lives in the county.
The fire service also wants to reiterate to the public to be mindful this week when cooking outdoors.
Group manager Rob Berwick said: “When we have high heat, the ground is dry and this increases the risk of fires significantly.
“One of those risks is around barbecues. If you’ve going to have a barbecue, please be mindful that it’s away from houses, fences, sheds or foliage.
“When you dispose your ash or coal, please do this when it’s nice and cool. We’d also avoid bonfires in open areas.”