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   Police warn of the dangers of swimming in Salford Quays
Police are warning young people of the dangers of open water in the Salford Quays area. As the weather gets warmer, the Quays can be seen as a tempting way to cool off but many are unaware that the water is dangerous and it is illegal to swim in. Salford Quays is 27 feet deep, water temperature can be dangerously cold even in summer and the water can hide objects that can seriously injure swimmers. There are no lifeguards in the area and those who get into difficulty can risk others lives, should they jump in to save them. PC Jon Raffles from Salford Central Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “It is very important that people realise the dangers of jumping into open water, however appealing it may seem to be. There has been one incident recently where two teenagers were arrested after climbing on a nearby footbridge. Not only were they risking their own lives, a boat carrying a large number of people had to wait until they had got down before it could pass through. “It is against the law to swim in Salford Quays and those found swimming or jumping into the water from bridges and the dock sides risk arrest. There are more safer and fun alternatives available across the city.” Meanwhile, officers are taking part in Operation Marne, providing a high visibility presence to deter anti-social behaviour in the area. People will be issued warning letters and reported to Salford City Council should they breach byelaws and dispersal orders. Dispersal orders give police the power to break up groups causing harassment or acting in an intimidating or anti-social way. PC Raffles added: “We want residents and visitors to the Quays to feel safe and enjoy the warm weather during the summer break. I believe the dispersal orders will help achieve this as well as encourage people to behave in a responsible manner.” Those interested in swimming can do so safely at Fit City Clarendon and other Fit City centres across Salford. The SAYO and SPARKY project offers sport and leisure activities throughout the year for under-18’s, including swimming and water sports trips. For all other leisure and sports information, phone 0161 778 0770. Photo: PC Jon Raffles Due to problems with spam only SalfordOnline members can now leave comments. Becoming a member of SalfordOnline only takes a minute, just hit the red Join Us button at the top right hand side of the page to create your Personal account. Got a news story? Need help with publicity for an event in Salford? Send it to newsdesk@salfordonline.com or call the SalfordOnline newsdesk on 0161 789 5377. |
