Yorkshire Water is encouraging visitors to its reservoirs to remain considerate of their behaviour in order to keep themselves and local wildlife safe ahead of the forecast warm weather this weekend.
Swimming in the reservoirs is not allowed, with visitors being encouraged to remain vigilant around the water. Reservoirs can pose a risk to life, through cold water shock, operational equipment under the water, hidden currents and other dangers.
Alastair Harvey, lead countryside and woodland advisor at Yorkshire Water, said:
“Yorkshire is overdue a warm weekend, and we know that people across the county are excited to get out and about and enjoy the sunshine. Feeling hot can make a dip in our reservoirs seem tempting, but we’re urging visitors to find other ways to keep cool – such as finding shade or carrying bottled water with you. It’s important not to take the risk.
“Sadly, we’ve seen incidents in Yorkshire in recent years when people have lost their lives in reservoirs and other open water. We’d advise keeping well clear of the edge of the water, and parents should stay alert to their children entering or playing near the water too.”
Refraining from using disposable barbecues or starting fires, taking litter home, and keeping dogs on leads, especially when around livestock, can all help to keep wildlife, the natural environment, and nearby farm animals safe. Disposable barbeques and fires are not permitted on any of Yorkshire Water’s sites, and some of its sites are covered by Public Space Protection Orders (PSPO’s), meaning people could face on the spot fines if they are found to be using one.
Yorkshire Water’s rangers will be on site across reservoirs over the weekend, to engage with visitors and encourage considerate behaviour.
Alastair added:
“Following the Countryside Code and ensuring to take litter home, keep dogs on leads, park considerately, and be friendly to other visitors and our rangers will help to make trips to our reservoirs enjoyable for everyone over the weekend.”
If visitors do see someone in the water who requires help or a fire, call 999 and ask for the Fire Service immediately – crews are trained and equipped to deal with such incidents.
Yorkshire residents needed for new series of BBC's Race Across the World
Meet your Neighbourhood Policing Team this week in Ilkley
What's on at Ilkley playhouse?
Rotary backs Nell Bank with £5k pond upgrade and appeal launch
Arrest warrant issued for disqualified Ilkley businessman alleged to be in induced coma
Larger venue needed for literary duo event
Dates confirmed for the 2026 Lexus Ilkley Open
One of the "Seven Wonders of the World" on our doorstep
Questions raised over Ilkley 20mph scheme validity
Passenger Transport Services (PTS) will not operate tomorrow due to weather warnings
Council launches major consultation on housing
Appeal after stolen van in Ilkley
Storm Goretti: Yellow weather warning for snow in Ilkley
Acquisition will enhance Ilkley based SmartSearch services
New Cancer Support Group for Ilkley
Almost 200 Airedale Hospital workers to go on strike over pensions
Ilkley Colts stand out in new kit thanks to sponsors
New Ilkley English tutoring service helps students thrive
Changes to parking charges in Ilkley Town Centre
Retrospective "amphitheatre" plans by Burley Oaks
