Open water safety warning after more than 10 UK deaths

Thames Valley Police has issued a new statement (Sunday, May 31) following the deaths of 11 people around the country during the recent heatwave in water-related tragedies.

That includes Baltazar L’Quy, who got into difficulty in the River Thames, close to Donnington Bridge, on Wednesday evening, May 27, before he was pronounced dead.

READ MORE: Floral tributes left near bridge where Oxford teenager died

Tributes were made to the 14-year-old from family members, organisations and emergency services.

Now the police’s South Oxon and Vale of White Horse unit has released some further advice on swimming around rivers and in open water.

A spokesperson said: “With the recent sunshine, we are seeing more people enjoying the River Thames and surrounding waterways across Wallingford, Benson, and nearby areas.

Open water swimming (Image: Getty Images)

“We want everyone to enjoy the weather safely and be aware of the risks associated with open water.”

They advise people not to jump into water from height as their may be unseen hazards and to take care when swimming as depths can vary and there may be submerged objects or strong currents.

They added: “Sadly, there have been several water-related fatalities across the UK in recent weeks.

“In many cases, cold water shock – a sudden and dangerous response to entering cold water – has been a contributing factor.

Donnington Bridge pictured from above. (Image: Kevin Brackett)

“Even during hot weather, river temperatures can remain dangerously low and pose a serious risk to life.”

On this, the force recommended that people enter the water slowly to allow your body to adjust to the temperature and to always stay within your capabilities and avoid taking unnecessary risks.

In addition, you should keep an eye on friends, family, and others around you.

They continued: “If someone is in difficulty in the water, please call 999 immediately and ask for the Fire Service, who are specially trained and equipped to carry out water rescues.

READ MORE: Oxford teenagers swimming in Thames days after boy’s death

“Thames Valley Police may also attend to assist with public safety and to ensure a sterile working environment – meaning a safe and controlled area where emergency services can operate without interference.

“Let’s all take care, look out for one another, and enjoy the warmer weather safely.”

The police are not the only Oxfordshire organisation to have released advice following the recent deaths.

Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service reshared a series of videos, posted in 2022, about the dangers of water and what actions to take if you or someone else fall in or gets into difficulty.