This years “Be Water Aware” campaign backed by South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue, has urged people not to enter reservoirs as summer approaches.

The campaign is ran by the National Fire Chiefs Council and aims to raise awareness about the risk of accidental drowning. Latest figures indicate there were 226 accidental drowning deaths in 2022, six taking place in Yorkshire.

Huxley Craig, Water Safety lead for SYFR, said: “We warn of the dangers of cold water shock as we are a cold water country.

“We are not against open water swimming clubs and would encourage people to try a club. We totally recognise and appreciate the benefits of open water swimming. We work with some of these clubs who help us educate anyone interested in swimming in open water.”

With the effects of cold water shock and unseen hazards like hidden undercurrents and operating machinery, some of the strongest swimmers can get into difficulties.

However, open water swimming also has benefits, both mentally and physically.

Jonathan Self, an open water coach, set up an open water swimming community group and hosts events all year round.

He said: “In my role I am mindful of the dangers of swimming in the cold so I ensure all my swimmers have a cold water induction and understand what cold water shock is.

“I am a strong believer in the mental fitness benefits of open water swimming and am so proud of the inclusive group I lead.”

The benefits of open water swimming include boosting your immune system, improvement to circulation and increased libido.

Simon Wilkes, an open water swimmer, said: “As a totally blind person I find that being in the water really does provide me with such a wonderful sense of freedom and liberation.”

Yorkshire Water see people entering its 130 reservoirs daily, despite warnings about the dangers it can pose.

Alastair Harvey, lead countryside and woodland advisor at Yorkshire Water, said: “With the summer approaching, we’re expecting to see an increase in numbers of people wanting to swim.

“We know how dangerous it can be to enter open bodies of water, like our reservoirs, and would urge everyone to take note of warnings at our sites.”

The campaign runs from 22 to 28 April.