SES Water is urging people not to swim in Bough Beech Reservoir or its lakes during hot weather.
The company said reservoirs are active operational sites and can contain deep, cold water, hidden machinery and strong currents beneath the surface.
The warning comes as warmer conditions make open water sites more tempting for visitors. SES Water said people should enjoy reservoir spaces from the shore and follow any safety advice or temporary closures in place.
SES Water issues reservoir safety warning
Bough Beech Reservoir is part of SES Water’s operational infrastructure. Although reservoirs can look calm from the shore, the company said they are not safe places to swim.
Risks can include hidden machinery, underwater structures and strong currents linked to operational equipment. Deep water can also remain cold even during periods of hot weather.
We know our reservoir can look very tempting in hot weather, but it is an operational site and it is never safe to enter the water.
Daniel Kennedy, director of water services, SES Water
Cold water and hidden hazards increase risk
Cold water shock can affect breathing, movement and judgement, even for confident swimmers. The risk can be greater when people enter deep water suddenly during hot weather.
SES Water’s reservoir safety guidance warns that reservoirs can also have steep or slippery banks, submerged plant life and limited rescue facilities.
The Royal Life Saving Society UK advises people to stop and think before entering open water, check for hazards and call 999 in an emergency.
Visitors asked to stay on shore
SES Water said visitors should keep to safe areas and follow warning signs around reservoir sites.
Hidden machinery, strong currents and the shock of deep, cold water can all pose serious risks. Which is why we’re asking people to enjoy these spaces safely from the shore and follow any safety advice or temporary closures in place.
Daniel Kennedy, director of water services, SES Water
The company is asking people not to enter the water at Bough Beech Reservoir, even in hot weather. Reservoirs should be treated as working water infrastructure, not open swimming locations.
More coverage of water safety and drinking water infrastructure is available in the H2O Global News Drinking Water section and Water Management section.
FAQs
Can you swim in Bough Beech Reservoir?
No. SES Water says people should not swim in Bough Beech Reservoir because it is an operational site with deep water, hidden machinery and strong currents.
Why are reservoirs dangerous in hot weather?
Reservoirs can look calm, but the water may be deep and cold. Sudden entry can cause cold water shock, affecting breathing and movement.
What should visitors do at Bough Beech Reservoir?
Visitors should stay out of the water, remain on safe routes, follow signs and comply with any safety advice or temporary closures.
What should you do if someone is in trouble in the water?
Call 999 or 112, keep the person in sight, reassure them and throw something that floats if it is safe to do so. Do not put yourself at risk.
