People reminded to enjoy the warm weather safely

As temperatures continue to rise across Staffordshire, we’re reminding people to take care around open water.

Whilst open water might seem inviting in warm weather, there are many hidden dangers such as strong undercurrents, cold water shock and shallow water beds.

Eastern Service Delivery Group Manager, Martin Weaver, said: “The temperatures across the county this week are expected to reach around 30 degrees and people might be tempted to enter open water as a way to cool off, but we would like to remind people of the dangers of doing so.

“The water is often a lot cooler than you expect which can make it hard to move and there is no way of telling what hazards lie beneath the surface.

“We would also like to ask parents to remind their children about water safety so they understand the risks and know what to do in an emergency.”

If you fall into water by accident, follow our float to live advice as follows:

• Fight your instinct to thrash around
• Lean back, extend your arms and legs
• If you need to, gently move them around to help you float
• Float until you can control your breathing
• Only then, call for help, swim to safety or continue floating until help arrives

For more water safety advice, visit Water safety.