Yorkshire Water issues reservoir safety warning ahead of Bank Holiday Weekend

Yorkshire Water has encouraged reservoir visitors to stay safe over the Bank Holiday Weekend.

The utility company has urged the public not to enter any body of open water following several water-related deaths across Yorkshire this year.

Yorkshire Water warns that reservoirs can pose risks to life through cold water shock, sudden drops, hidden currents, and operational equipment under the water.

Alastair Harvey, lead countryside and woodland advisor at Yorkshire Water, said: “Sadly, we’ve seen incidents this year in Yorkshire where people have lost their lives in reservoirs and other open water.

“We’d advise sticking to the walking routes on public footpaths and don’t be tempted to go for a dip in the shallows or walk on the exposed embankment and structures, as there can be risks of sinking mud.”

If visitors see someone in trouble in reservoir water, they should call 999 and ask for the fire service.

Yorkshire Water has also highlighted that several of its reservoirs have tenanted clubs who offer safe water sports such as sailing and windsurfing, but water sports of any kind are not authorised at its reservoirs unless through one of these clubs.

Visitors to Yorkshire Water reservoirs are also encouraged to be considerate of their behaviour to help make reservoir trips “safe and enjoyable for everyone.”

Alastair said: “We want people across Yorkshire to enjoy our reservoirs and surrounding countryside, but it’s important that people consider their behaviours and do not take risks that could impact the local natural environment and wildlife, or that puts them in harm's way.

“Refraining from using disposable barbecues or starting fires, taking litter home, and keeping dogs on leads, especially around livestock, can all help to keep wildlife, the natural environment, and nearby farm animals safe. Disposable barbeques and fires are not permitted on any of our sites.”