Bristol Water has urged people not to swim in its reservoirs and lakes as hot weather continues across the region, after the Met Office issued a red warning for extreme heat on Wednesday and Thursday. The warning points to an exceptional spell of hot and humid weather, with impacts on the general population highly likely.
Why reservoirs are dangerous
The company is reminding visitors that its reservoirs are active operational sites that can contain deep, cold water, hidden machinery and strong currents beneath the surface. Sudden entry into cold water can also trigger cold-water shock, even on hot days. Water companies and safety bodies routinely warn against open-water swimming during heatwaves, when warm weather draws more people toward reservoirs, lakes and rivers.
Cheddar Reservoir temporarily closed
As part of its routine water-safety practice during periods of extreme heat, Bristol Water has temporarily closed public access to Cheddar Reservoir to reduce the risk to visitors and to avoid adding pressure to emergency services during a busy period.
“We know our reservoirs can look very tempting in hot weather, but they are operational sites and it is never safe to enter the water,” said Richard Stanbrook, Bristol Water’s general manager of drinking water services. “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.”
A recurring summer message
Bristol Water’s appeal echoes wider efforts to keep people safe in and around water during hot weather; South West Water and the University of Exeter, for example, launched a Safe to Swim forum on bathing-water issues. The same hot spells that raise safety risks are also prompting utilities to plan for tighter water resources. Bristol Water has published reservoir safety guidance at bristolwater.co.uk/reservoir-dos-and-donts.
Frequently asked questions
What is Bristol Water asking people to do?
To avoid swimming in its reservoirs and lakes during the hot weather and to enjoy these spaces from the shore, following any safety advice or temporary closures.
Why are reservoirs dangerous?
They are operational sites that can contain deep, cold water, hidden machinery and strong currents, and sudden immersion can cause cold-water shock even on hot days.
Has Bristol Water closed any sites?
Yes. It has temporarily closed public access to Cheddar Reservoir as a precaution during the extreme heat.
Where can I find reservoir safety advice?
Bristol Water has published guidance at bristolwater.co.uk/reservoir-dos-and-donts.
