News

Severn Trent is asking visitors to keep safe by keeping out of its reservoirs, after rangers have caught visitors risking their own, and others safety, and by entering the water when they shouldn’t.

The company, that has 12 visitor sites across the Midlands, has seen an increase in people jumping in the water in a bid to cool off as temperatures across the region continue to rise.

Severn Trent say it’s reservoirs are extremely dangerous, and have hidden dangers under the surface due to strong currents and freezing temperatures so is strongly advising anyone who thinks about cooling off in the water, to keep safe, and keep out.

Dan Taberner, Visitor Experience Manager at Severn Trent, said: “It’s been amazing to see people coming back to our wonderful visitor sites and enjoying everything we have on offer after what’s been a difficult year for many. And while we really want to encourage people to enjoy themselves in the lovely weather, we really need people to stay out of the water.

“Although our reservoirs look tempting when it’s hot, the fact is they’re extremely dangerous. On the surface they look calm and steady but, underneath, the water is very deep with incredibly strong currents that even the most experienced swimmer would struggle with.

“On top of that, we don’t have lifeguards or safe swimming areas, so we really do need everyone to keep out of the water as you could be putting yourself at real danger if you go in.”Severn Trent’s reservoirs are built with the sole purpose of supplying water to its customers across its entire region, and not for swimming.

“Not only are our reservoirs really deep, they’re also extremely cold,” said Dan. “If you go into any of our reservoirs, you might end up in serious trouble even if you are an experienced swimmer. The freezing water and strong currents could create issues, and, unlike beaches and swimming pools, there are no lifeguards to help you, so if you get it any difficulty, there’s no one to help so please don’t take the risk.”

More details about Severn Trent’s visitor sites are available at https://www.stwater.co.uk/wonderful-on-tap/our-visitor-sites/come-visit-us/