Avoid the dangers this summer as weather warms up

'‹With warmer weather having made an appearance, Wakefield Council is reminding everyone to stay safe and keep away from potential dangers.
Don't be tempted to swim in lakes - there are hidden dangers...Don't be tempted to swim in lakes - there are hidden dangers...
Don't be tempted to swim in lakes - there are hidden dangers...

​The council is urging people to be aware of the risks of cooling off or playing in ponds, lakes and flooded quarries.

READ: Apology after tubes of toothpaste are sold for nearly £10 at hospital shop in WakefieldIt is dangerous to swim in places that are not specially created for swimming.

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Although open water can look inviting on hot days, there are often hidden dangers underneath, such as discarded waste that can entrap people, slippery rocks and changes in water depth.

Shallows can also be dangerously cold when they get deeper.

READ: Smoking rates among pregnant mums in Wakefield are the highest in the country. Coun Maureen Cummings, Wakefield Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Communities, said: “During hot weather some people may be tempted to go into the water for what appears to be a cooling dip, but swimmers have no idea of what is under the surface.

“Tangles of weeds and rubbish could ensnare a swimmer and put them in danger of drowning or severe injury. The water can also become dangerously cold when it gets deeper.”

The council is also asking people to be aware of another summer time hazard - the potential for damaging fires being caused by countryside barbecues.

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People are asked only to use purpose-manufactured barbecues, always to keep a bucket of water handy and to be particularly careful of where they site a barbecue.

In case of emergency call 999 immediately.

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents has more information and advice on staying safe this summer at www.rospa.com