West Norfolk Council warning over cold water shock as people enjoy water during warm weather

West Norfolk Council has issued a warning over cold water shock amid a rise in outdoor swimming in the warm weather.

With temperatures rising over the past few weeks, people have no doubt been heading to popular spots such as Bawsey Country Park - as well as rivers around the area and beaches on the coast.

However, the borough council has urged people to take care when enjoying the water.

There have been a number of deaths previously at Bawsey - while last year, 18-year-old Cory Chilvers drowned after falling into the water at St Germans.

“The wonderful spring weather we’re enjoying is encouraging people to go outdoors - which is a good thing,” a borough council spokesperson said.

“Some people are taking to the water to stay cool, which is also great - as long as they do it safely.

“One of our main concerns is cold water shock. This is a very real problem, especially in quarries, which have steeply sloping sides and sudden drops: this creates sudden drops in temperature and these can have an uncontrollable effect on the body.

“We have produced a short checklist and would encourage people to follow its advice so they can stay safe while enjoying the water.”

The council’s advice is to:

• Take notice of warning signs

• Wear a wetsuit and swim with friends

• Supervise children

• Wear a buoyancy aid

• Know the hazards in the water before you get in

There were 16 incidents in Norfolk last year where people died due to accidental drowning.