Ahead of the latest July 2026 heatwave, residents across Cheshire are being warned about the dangers of open water swimming.

Over recent weeks, the UK has seen a number of record-breaking temperatures, and the trend looks set to continue over the next few weeks.

During the hot weather some people, especially young people, are often tempted to cool off in open bodies of water.

While open water swimming is popular, it is advisable that this is done with organised groups who have the necessary knowledge and expertise to keep you safe.

Superintendent Andy Blizard, from Cheshire Police, said: "While it may seem tempting to take a dip in open water during the hot weather, it's essential that people are aware of the potential deadly consequences.

"Going into water can not only endanger your own life but the lives of others around you if they jump in to rescue you.

"We don't want to discourage people from enjoying themselves near water, but it's important to remember that the surface can be misleading. Strong undercurrents, sudden drops in temperature, debris and even disease can all be hidden just a few feet below. Cold water shock can affect even the strongest swimmers, and these unseen hazards can quickly turn a quick dip into a dangerous situation.

"Sadly, we have already seen one death in open water here in Cheshire this year, along with many others across the UK, and while the full circumstances of these incidents are still to be established, we don't want to see any more.

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"The message to our communities is a clear one: don't be tempted to put your life at risk by cooling off in open water."

Station Manager Ryan Swindells, from Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: "Sadly, we've already seen a number of water-related tragedies across the country this summer.

"If you're looking to cool down, we would always encourage people to choose supervised locations rather than taking risks in open water.

"If you see someone struggling, shout to them, reach out with a stick or pole, and throw them something that floats. Never enter the water yourself to attempt a rescue - call 999 immediately.

"We want everyone to enjoy the warm weather, but please look out for one another so that everyone gets home safely."

Key safety advice:

• Under the surface can tell a different story: strong undercurrents, cold temperatures, debris, and disease can be hidden just a few feet below the surface. Cold water shock can affect even the strongest swimmers
• Alcohol and drugs do not mix with swimming - stay away from water if you are under the influence.
• Swimming in designated, supervised areas. Avoid swimming in unsupervised open water.
• Never swim alone, particularly in unsupervised areas like quarries, canals, or ponds.
• Never leave children unsupervised near any body of water.
• Follow the Water Safety Code: Stop and Think, Stay Together, Call 999 and Float to Live
• Follow Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service's Advice: Shout, Reach, Throw, Don't Go

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service offer free water safety education and the free RNLI Waterside Responder Scheme for businesses near water. Visit their website to learn more.

More information and water safety advice is available here