Firefighters have demonstrated water rescues and offered safety advice at a popular open water swimming spot near Wiltshire.
Avon Fire and Rescue Service crews visited Warleigh Weir, near Bath, where they spoke to visitors about the potential hidden dangers of swimming in rivers and lakes.
Water safety crews and the service’s Water Safety Lead provided throwline training and carried out rescue demonstrations during the visit.
Firefighters also gave boat trips to children and allowed members of the public to take part in rescue exercises.
The service said the event provided an opportunity to highlight hazards which may not be immediately obvious to swimmers.
Risks around weirs can include strong currents, dangerous reeds and aquatic plants, cold water shock and submerged obstacles which cannot always be seen from the surface.
With warmer weather encouraging more people to spend time around rivers and other open water, the fire service is urging visitors to understand the risks before entering.
A spokesperson for Avon Fire and Rescue Service said: “As temperatures rise, please remember that open water can be far more dangerous than it appears.
“Take care, know the risks, and enjoy the summer safely.”
