As people continue to enjoy the summer holidays and make the most of the outdoors, NI Water is reminding the public to stay safe around reservoirs.

With August weather continuing to bring a mix of rain and sunshine, NI Water is reminding visitors that reservoirs can remain dangerous in all conditions. Wet weather can make paths, banks and surrounding ground slippery, while brighter spells may encourage more people to spend time outdoors near water. 

NI Water is reminding everyone that whatever the weather, reservoirs are not safe places for swimming, paddling or entering the water under any circumstances.

Patricia McKee, senior facilities manager at NI Water, said: “While brighter days may encourage more people outdoors, wet weather can leave paths and banks slippery and increase the risk of accidents near water.

“Reservoirs can look calm and inviting, particularly during warmer weather, but they are working operational sites and can pose serious dangers. Cold water, hidden currents, sudden changes in depth, steep banks, underwater machinery and slippery surfaces can all put lives at risk.

“We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors safely, but entering a reservoir can have tragic consequences. Please keep out of the water, stay on designated paths, follow safety signage and make sure children and young people understand the dangers.”

• The public is advised to follow these key safety messages:
• Do not swim, paddle or jump into reservoirs.
• Keep children supervised at all times and speak to young people about open water risks.
• Stay on designated paths and keep away from steep banks and dam structures.
• Obey all safety signs and barriers.
• Keep dogs on leads near the water – if a dog gets into difficulty, call for help rather than putting yourself at risk.

Never enter the water to rescue someone or an animal - call 999 or 101 immediately and ask for the Fire and Rescue Service.

The National Water Safety Forum and RNLI advise if you get into difficulty, Float to Live: lean back, use your arms and legs to stay afloat, control your breathing, then call for help or swim to safety if you can.

Patricia added: “Safety signs and barriers are there for a reason. We are asking everyone visiting areas near reservoirs to act responsibly, respect these sites and help us keep themselves and others safe.”

In addition to NI Water reservoirs, there are many other public and private reservoirs and there are many other locations where water hazards can be encountered, including rivers, lakes, canals, quarries and coastal areas. While they may appear safe, these environments often contain hidden dangers such as strong currents, sudden drops, unstable banks, and cold water that can quickly lead to shock. It’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid entering the water unless it is clearly designated as safe to do so.

Ends

Media enquiries to the NI Water Press Office via email to press.office@niwater.com