Calls have been made for people not to risk their lives by trespassing at NI Water sites to post videos on social media.

NI Water says it has become increasingly concerned about risk-taking behaviour at some of its public sites, where people are endangering themselves in pursuit of likes and online attention.

The warning comes as videos shared online show people accessing prohibited areas and putting themselves at serious risk.

An NI Water spokesperson said: “We are seeing a worrying trend on social media of people taking huge risks by entering reservoir infrastructure areas and standing near sheer drops, made even more dangerous by fast-flowing water and changing water levels.

“NI Water is appealing to everyone visiting our publicly accessible sites to do so safely and responsibly and to respect all warning signs and restricted areas. 

“Locations displaying ‘No Trespassing’ signs are out of bounds to the public because they are not safe. Some of these areas are monitored by CCTV and any footage of trespassing incidents will be captured and passed to the PSNI.

“No social media post, video or photograph is worth risking serious injury or loss of life. These actions can also place NI Water staff and Northern Ireland’s emergency and rescue services at risk if a rescue operation is required.

“NI Water is also reminding the public that all water activities are strictly prohibited at its reservoirs. We are urging parents and guardians to speak to young people about the dangers of trespassing on reservoir infrastructure, where hidden hazards, deep water and steep, slippery banks can result in death or serious injury.

“Don’t take a chance with your life for the sake of a video, photograph or social media likes. Please stay safe by respecting NI Water’s safety signage, keeping well back from sheer drops and reservoir infrastructure, and avoiding restricted areas. Never put yourself at risk to capture or post content online.

“If you see someone in difficulty, call 999 or 112 immediately and ask for the Fire & Rescue Service if the incident is inland.”

ENDS