Yorkshire Water is encouraging visitors to its reservoirs to remain considerate of their behaviour in order to keep themselves and local wildlife safe ahead of the forecast warm weather this weekend.
Swimming in the reservoirs is not allowed, with visitors being encouraged to remain vigilant around the water. Reservoirs can pose a risk to life, through cold water shock, operational equipment under the water, hidden currents and other dangers.
Alastair Harvey, lead countryside and woodland advisor at Yorkshire Water, said:
“Yorkshire is overdue a warm weekend, and we know that people across the county are excited to get out and about and enjoy the sunshine. Feeling hot can make a dip in our reservoirs seem tempting, but we’re urging visitors to find other ways to keep cool – such as finding shade or carrying bottled water with you. It’s important not to take the risk.
“Sadly, we’ve seen incidents in Yorkshire in recent years when people have lost their lives in reservoirs and other open water. We’d advise keeping well clear of the edge of the water, and parents should stay alert to their children entering or playing near the water too.”
Refraining from using disposable barbecues or starting fires, taking litter home, and keeping dogs on leads, especially when around livestock, can all help to keep wildlife, the natural environment, and nearby farm animals safe. Disposable barbeques and fires are not permitted on any of Yorkshire Water’s sites, and some of its sites are covered by Public Space Protection Orders (PSPO’s), meaning people could face on the spot fines if they are found to be using one.
Yorkshire Water’s rangers will be on site across reservoirs over the weekend, to engage with visitors and encourage considerate behaviour.
Alastair added:
“Following the Countryside Code and ensuring to take litter home, keep dogs on leads, park considerately, and be friendly to other visitors and our rangers will help to make trips to our reservoirs enjoyable for everyone over the weekend.”
If visitors do see someone in the water who requires help or a fire, call 999 and ask for the Fire Service immediately – crews are trained and equipped to deal with such incidents.
Skipton named best place to live in the north and northeast of England
New speed limits for rural roads in Steeton and Silsden
North Yorkshire Council to develop Town Development Plan for Skipton
Skipton store where worker sold alcohol to child loses premises licence
Air Ambulance calls on schools to 'turn yellow' for Yorkshire
Skipton MP welcomes heating oil support for rural households
Skipton charity founder's MBE medal replaced after burglary
Police appeal following motorcycle theft in Skipton
Skipton BID delivers free training for newly installed 'Bleed Kits'
Skipton Gala announce Gala Queen and attendants
Skipton children's charity delighted to open 3rd respite home in Primrose Valley
Tribute cruise to raise money for Skipton Pride
Spellman Care support Airedale Hospital & Community Charity's Easter Appeal
Skipton MP heads to Westminster to talk challenges within hospitality sector
Skipton man jailed for 18 years for sexual offences against children
The Geek Side announces closure before 10th anniversary
Skipton Multisport Festival to be held this May
Local attractions to close as Met Office issues yellow weather warning for wind
17 year old arrested following high speed pursuit from Skipton
The Coniston Hotel to remain under family ownership
