Police urge people not to go open water swimming after youngsters seen swinging by rope into March river

Police have encouraged parents and carers to remind children about the dangers of open water swimming.

Officers have recently been made aware of young people making a rope swing and jumping off the March bypass into the river, as well as pit swimming in Manea.

A spokesperson for the police said they have seen instances which have ended in tragedy, both locally very recently, as well as nationally.

They said: “As we head into the summer months and the weather will – hopefully – get warmer, we want to ensure that everyone stays safe near open water.

As tempting as it might be to enter the water to cool off, officers advise people not to do this:

- As the water is often far deeper, colder, and may be hiding debris below the surface, it is important not to jump or dive in due to the unseen hazards

- Never swim near weirs or locks, as there are often dangerous currents

If you do see someone in trouble, call 999 immediately with clear details of your location or find the nearest life ring or anything that could help them float, and throw it to them.

Police urge people to never try to carry out a rescue themselves, as you could put yourself in danger as well.