Reservoir safety advice issued ahead of bank holiday

Friday, 22 August 2025 10:18

Yorkshire Water has issued a reminder about reservoir safety ahead of the August Bank Holiday weekend.

The company advises that while reservoirs may appear calm and inviting, they can present hidden risks including cold water shock, submerged operational equipment, sudden drops, strong currents and, this year, new hazards caused by lower-than-usual water levels.

Alastair Harvey, countryside and woodland advisor at Yorkshire Water, highlighted recent incidents across Yorkshire involving fatalities in reservoirs and other open water.

He encouraged visitors to remain on public footpaths and avoid entering the water, shallow areas, exposed embankments or structures where there may be risks such as sinking mud.

Lower water levels have exposed particular features at some reservoirs.

At Baitings, a submerged bridge has become visible, and at Thruscross, remains of the former village of West End can be seen.

Yorkshire Water advises viewing such features from a safe distance.

Certain Yorkshire Water reservoirs host clubs that provide safe, organised water sports such as sailing and windsurfing.

Activities on the water are only permitted through these authorised clubs, which are listed at yorkshirewater.com/things-to-do/reservoirs, along with information about fishing and other recreational opportunities.

Yorkshire Water ranger teams continue to engage with visitors, sharing information on water safety and encouraging people to follow the Countryside Code.

This includes avoiding disposable barbecues or fires, taking litter home, and keeping dogs on leads, particularly near livestock.

Barbecues and fires are not permitted on Yorkshire Water sites.

In an emergency, anyone who sees a person in difficulty in the water is advised to call 999.

Fire and Rescue Service crews are trained and equipped to respond to such incidents.

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