Extreme heat alert

The Met Office has issued a Red extreme heat alert for the West Midlands from 9am on Wednesday to 11pm on Friday. Hot weather can be dangerous, especially for vulnerable people. For advice on staying cool, signs of heat exhaustion, swimming safely outdoors, fire safety, and more:  https://www.dudley.gov.uk/residents/care-and-health/summer-wellbeing/
 

This is detail that can be found within the Dudley link:

Swimming outdoors

If you swim outdoors in the sea, a pool or river to keep cool, make sure it's a safe place to swim. Look out for warning signs and hidden dangers by following the tips below:

• If there's no lifeguard – don't go in
• Check the depth – it can be deceptive
• Avoid floodwaters – never swim during floods
• Throw something that floats to somebody that has fallen in
• Hidden dangers – underwater hazards include rocks, glass, refuse, and pollution
• Raise the alarm – if someone is in trouble, call 999. Never attempt a rescue yourself
• If you fall in or become tired while you are in the water – stay calm, float on our back and call for help
• Don't drink and drown – avoid alcohol or drugs while swimming. They impair your abilities and judgment
• Rock bottom – avoid jumping from heights, especially bridges. The water below can be shallow with hidden dangers
• Wild water – swimming in natural waters is different from swimming pools. Be wary of strong currents and cold temperatures
• Look before you leap – check for safe exit points before entering. Steep and slippery banks can make if difficult to get out of the water

Children should never swim in these areas unaccompanied. Young children need constant supervision around water, they can drown in less than 2 inches of water.

Organised open water swimming sessions take place all year round at Netherton reservoir. See the Netherton Open Water Swimming website for more details.

More advice is available from:

• Royal Life Saving Society
• Outdoor Swimming Society
• National Water Safety Forum
• Healthy Dudley – Water Safety