Wiltshire Police has issued an urgent warning after children were spotted swimming in a quarry in the countryside near Swindon.
Officers have been made aware of youths accessing the site in Purton and entering the water, describing the situation as “extremely dangerous”.
The warning comes as temperatures rise ahead of the Bank Holiday weekend and school half-term.
The force has highlighted the risks of open water swimming, including deep cold water causing shock.
Unstable edges could also give way without warning and there may be hidden hazards beneath the surface.
Wiltshire Police warned that these dangers can have devastating consequences, even in warm weather.
A spokesperson said: “As we head into the Bank Holiday weekend and school half-term, your Neighbourhood Policing Team is urging parents, guardians and young people to be aware of the serious dangers posed by the quarry site in Purton.
“We are aware that children are entering the quarry and going into the water. This is extremely dangerous. The quarry is private property and strictly off-limits.
“The risks include:
- Very deep, cold water which can lead to cold water shock
- Unstable edges that can give way without warning
- Hidden hazards beneath the surface
“These dangers can have devastating consequences, even in warm weather.
“We are asking all parents and guardians to speak to their children about these risks, particularly during the school holidays when they may be spending more time outdoors with friends.
“Please help us keep everyone safe by reinforcing this message at home. We want everyone to enjoy the Bank Holiday and half-term break safely.
“Thank you for your continued support.”
