Local authority leaders have warned bathers of the risk drowning during the upcoming heatwave.
The Local Government Association (LGA) is urging people to keep safe in the water and learn what do in case of an emergency.
Last year, 277 people died as a result of accidental drowning, an increase in 23 deaths from the previous year.
Cllr Nesil Caliskan, chair of the LGA’s Safer and Stronger Communities Board, said: ‘In a heatwave, one of the first things people do is flock to their local bathing spot to cool off and what might look like a safe place to take a dip or have a swim could in fact be a danger.
‘Councils want to make sure everyone is safe around water, which is why we are urging people to follow our advice to be careful and vigilant to the dangers.
‘Our advice is to brush up on your water safety skills and always swim in water that is clearly marked as safe and under the control of a lifeguard. Swimming in unknown water could lead to tragic consequences.’
