Rutland Water

Anglian Water is warning people not to be tempted to take a dip in one of its reservoirs this summer.

Anyone ignoring the warning would be breaking the law, and could be risking their life as well as that of others. Those caught face the very real possibility of prosecution, and a £500 fine.  

The prospect of diving into a calm-looking reservoir on a scorching hot day is understandably appealing, but the still surface could be hiding a multitude of harms.  

Reservoirs are large open areas of water which are used for water storage before it is treated to supply to customers. There are 18 in the Anglian Water region, including Rutland Water (Rutland), Grafham Water (Cambridgeshire), Pitsford (Northamptonshire), Covenham (Lincolnshire), Alton Water (Suffolk), and Taverham (Norfolk).  

Even during the summer, water temperature in reservoirs stays perilously low. It can be cold enough to cause uncontrollable bodily reactions, induce panic and paralyse the swimmer, as well as resulting in hypothermia.  

In certain weather conditions reservoirs also become breeding grounds for blue-green algae (Cyanobacteria). While it may look attractive, its formation on still water can produce harmful toxins, and cause stomach and skin problems.  

Reservoirs also are not uniform in their depth. The water can be many metres deep, and the bottom may well have sudden dips and drops which cannot be seen. The sides of reservoirs are often very deep, making it difficult to climb out.  

Antony Innes of Anglian Water said, “Reservoirs have an industrial purpose, which is to store drinking water. There may well be submerged machinery that is part of the water supply process, and which you cannot see or hear. They can create underwater currents which would pull even the strongest swimmer under.  

“By their nature, reservoirs are often in isolated locations. However quickly you call for help it could already be too late. It doesn't matter how strong a swimmer you are, swimming in reservoirs is simply a dangerous thing to do.”

For those who would like to get out on the water, there are a number of safe ways to get wet this summer. Anglian Water's Water Parks offer a number of fantastic opportunities to enjoy the countryside this summer without risking your life.