Warning issued after group spotted ignoring ‘no swimming’ sign at dangerous pool

Police have warned they will be keeping an eye on a dangerous swimming pool in Nuneaton as rising temperatures could tempt people to splash in it. Nuneaton and Bedworth Safer Neighborhood Team are to carry out extra patrols around the popular walking spot in the coming days.

It was only earlier this week that CoventryLive reported that a group of youths were spotted in the water right next to a no swimming sign. Now, with a May heatwave set to hit in the next 72 hours, there are concerns that this could lead to even more people taking a dip there.

There have been incidents of teenagers throwing tombstones into water in the past. Even small children left in inflatables have been seen there in hot weather.

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It’s not just about near misses. Tragically, people have died in the water, most recently in 2013 when 19-year-old Jake Butler lost his life after getting into trouble there. Measures have been taken to keep people out of the extremely deep pool, but people are still getting in.

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The county council planted “defensive” bushes around the pool to try to prevent people from entering and several new “no swimming” signs were installed on the fences. However, they were largely ignored.

Inspector Ryan Walker, from Nuneaton and Bedworth Safer Neighborhood Team, said: “Enjoy the scenery responsibly in the designated areas, but swimming in this type of open water is dangerous and has led to deaths in the past.”

The advice, police say, is simple – don’t go in the water.

• The water can be very cold – this can lead to severe cramps and hypothermia very quickly. Remember, cold water shock can kill!
• There can be hidden currents that could quickly pull you underwater – It can be difficult to get out, especially when trying to climb embankments.
• Alcohol and swimming don’t mix – stay out of the water if you’ve been drinking.
• Do not jump or dive into open water unless you know the depth – submerged objects such as rocks may not be visible and can cause serious injury.
• If you manage to get them out of the water, always seek medical attention – if water has entered the lungs then it can cause death up to 48 hours after the incident.

• If someone falls into deep water, the first thing to do is to call for help immediately. Call 999 and ask for the fire brigade and ambulance. Never go into the water to try to save someone. This can add to the problem even if you are a strong swimmer.

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