Wiltshire Search and Rescue (WILSAR) says it is ‘deeply saddened’ by recent drownings in the area – and has issued urgent open water swimming advice.
Three fatal incidents involving people swimming in rivers have occurred in or very near Wiltshire over the past two weeks alone, including one in Buscot on Saturday (12 July).
The charity, made up of trained search and rescue volunteers, has warned of the dangers beneath seemingly calm rivers and lakes, particularly during this summer’s heatwave.
“Wiltshire Search and Rescue is deeply saddened by the multiple tragedies involving open water swimming in our region during the recent hot weather”, a spokesperson said.
They continued: “Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones affected.
“While rivers and lakes may seem peaceful on the surface, they can conceal real dangers. One of the most underestimated is cold water shock – a sudden involuntary response to entering water that’s significantly cooler than body temperature.
“Even in summer, many UK waterways stay below 15°C. When someone jumps or falls in, the impact can trigger gasping, panic, increased heart rate and even loss of muscle control, making it extremely difficult to stay afloat or swim to safety.”
The WILSAR team recommends swimming only at lifeguarded locations, but recognises some people will choose to wild swim regardless.
For those who do, the charity urges swimmers never to go alone, to let someone know their plan, to enter the water slowly, and to stay near the edge in shallow areas.
Swimmers are also advised to avoid fast-moving water, wear a buoyancy aid if not confident, and supervise children at all times.
Adrian Sawyer, a Water Incident Manager for WILSAR, said: “Cold water shock is a physiological reaction that affects everyone.
“What you can do is enter the water slowly and give your body time to adjust.
“We urge people never to dive in suddenly, especially if they’re not familiar with the water.
“Once you lose control, rescue becomes incredibly difficult and the outcomes, tragically, are often fatal.”
If someone gets into difficulty in open water, people are urged not to enter the water themselves but to call 999 and ask for the fire and rescue service.
They should use a stick or lifebuoy to reach the person, throw something that floats, and encourage them to stay calm and breathe slowly.
The charity concluded: “Our team of trained volunteers regularly puts personal lives on hold to respond to emergencies.
“In the most harrowing cases, this means recovering the bodies of those lost in the water – an emotionally challenging experience that no volunteer ever forgets.
“At Wiltshire Search and Rescue, we are committed not only to search and rescue but to prevention.
“Sharing knowledge, raising awareness with your loved ones, and making safer decisions can save lives before rescue is ever needed.”
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