As the school holidays approach and the summer climate hots up, Associated British Ports is urging people not to swim in its docks.
With the hot weather recently experienced and with the summer break coming up, ABP knows water can be an attractive place to go.
The company has started a campaign, which will run this summer, aimed at schools and others to think about safety when near the water.
Simon Bird, the company’s Regional Director said: “On a hot day, it might seem like a good idea to cool down in open water, but swimming is prohibited in our docks.
“Docks are not a safe place to swim. Apart from being industrial centres, they pose a danger due to the steep walls which makes it difficult to escape.
“People also do not know what may be lurking beneath the water that could be a potential hazard. If you want to swim, go to a pool, or find an open water swimming club.”
The potential dangers of swimming in docks are:
- Deep water
- Unexpected cold-water shock
- Hazards lurking beneath the surface
- Active operational areas
- Waterborne diseases
- Tides
Supporting the ABP campaign is Peter Winchester, known for his record setting 70 crossings of the Humber between Spurn Point and Cleethorpes, which earned him the nickname, Humber King. He said: “There are many hidden dangers from swimming. It’s not wise to swim in a commercial dock, but swimming in a non-commercial area still poses threats from people throwing rubbish in.
“There are also variations in water temperature to consider. I’ve been swimming since the age of 14 and have always swum safely. My advice for people who want to swim is go to a pool or if you want to swim in the open water join a club.”
