The Environment Agency is warning people of the dangers of swimming near or jumping off its locks, weirs, and bridges after police were forced to clear around 300 swimmers and sunbathers from a single site, amidst soaring temperatures and the easing of lockdown restrictions.

Top tips for river safety:

• Don’t jump or dive in as the depth may vary and there can be unseen hazards.
• Don’t go in near weirs, locks, pipes and sluices. These and some other water features are often linked with strong currents.
• Inland waters can be very cold, no matter how warm the weather. Those going into cold water can get cramp and experience breathing difficulties very quickly.
• Keep a look out for boat traffic. Boaters, especially on larger vessels, can find it very hard to spot swimmers.

Read more here.