WESSEX Water is warning of the dangers of cooling off in reservoirs as temperatures rise and schools break up.

Wessex spokesman Hywel Lloyd said: "We've found that when the warm weather begins, some people would like nothing more than to plunge into a cooling lake.

"Nice as it may sound, reservoirs are not swimming pools and are definitely not safe places for bathing.

"Water inside is untreated, the lakes are very deep and cold, and fraught with unseen dangers which we try to warn about through signage.

"Swimming is not permitted in any of Wessex's reservoirs, and anyone who ignores the warnings will be asked to leave."

Despite the warnings, some people still put their lives at risk swimming in reservoirs figures show around 300 people drown in rivers, streams, lakes and reservoirs every year.

Young people and schoolchildren are especially vulnerable, often breaking through fencing and ignoring warning signs.

Parents are being urged to ensure their children properly understand the risks they face by swimming in reservoirs.

So, why not swim in them?

Reservoirs, like quarries, can be extremely deep and the water is exceptionally cold. This can cause shock among even the most experienced swimmers The water is untreated, often coming from farmland where pesticides and fertilisers may have been used The banks of reservoirs are home to various wildlife, such as rats and birds, which harbour various bacteria Reservoirs can have very steep sides and are difficult to get out of Reservoirs conceal underwater structures which could trap a swimmer.

While swimming is a no-go at reservoirs, many of Wessex Water's reservoirs are open for activities such as fishing, walking and bird watching.

Mr Lloyd added: "Reservoirs are a haven for wildlife and important areas of biodiversity, and we want people to be able to enjoy them for that reason. We happily open some of our reservoirs for recreational use and have a number of fishing clubs active at many of our reservoirs such as our Clatworthy, Hawkridge, Sutton Bingham and Durleigh reservoirs."

If you would like further information, please contact either Wessex Water customer services on 0845 600 4 600 or contact the appropriate ranger, or see our website: www.wessexwater.co.uk/recreation