Emergency services warn against swimming in rivers and lakes during warm weather

Emergency services have issued a renewed warning about the dangers of swimming in open water as warm and sunny weather continues across Nottinghamshire.

Police said officers were previously called to Holme Pierrepont, in May 2026, after reports of groups jumping into the water.

There were also reports of people entering the River Trent from both sides of the water close to Weir Fields Recreation Ground, Beeston Rylands.

Neighbourhood officers attended and gave advice to those at the scene, with both locations being monitored.

Emergency services are reminding people that open water can be dangerous, even during hot weather.

Almost half of accidental drownings happen during the warmer months and often involve people making a spur-of-the-moment decision to enter the water.

Risks include very cold water temperatures, even in summer, strong underwater currents, sudden changes in depth, debris, weeds, pumps and other hidden hazards.

Inspector Tim Cuthbert, neighbourhood inspector for Rushcliffe, said: “It’s going to remain very warm and sunny this next week and people will obviously want to be out and about enjoying the start of summer.

“People will want to be keeping cool but jumping into open water puts yourself and other people’s lives at risk.

“The Trent and other rivers and canals around Nottinghamshire may look incredibly enticing but you won’t know the dangers that lurk beneath the surface.

“There are no lifeguards, you don’t know how deep it is, or what’s in the water.

“You could get tangled up in weeds, land on discarded items, or seriously injure yourself.

“Even with the hot weather, the water could still be cold and cause cold water shock.

“No matter how strong a swimmer you believe you are, or if your mates are jumping in, or you’re following a trend on TikTok and egging each other on – remember the dangers.

“I’d also urge people not to be a bystander. If you see anyone putting themselves at risk, tell them they could get seriously hurt.

“Please enjoy the good weather but don’t go jumping or swimming in open water. It’s really not worth the risk.”

Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service’s Community Engagement and Partnerships Manager, Natasha Neale, added: “We would reiterate the safety advice from our colleagues in policing.

“Water, especially deep water, can be much colder than the air temperature, even after prolonged hot weather spells.

“However enticing it can be to cool off in open water, cold water shock can make swimming difficult. Coupled with potential unknown objects under the water’s surface and currents, even strong swimmers can get into difficulty quickly.

“If you see someone in difficulty in the water, phone 999 and ask for the fire service. Give an accurate location using what3words or landmarks and instruct the person to float on their back. Never enter the water yourself.”

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