Councillor Phillippa Martin-Moran-Bryant is calling for water safety to be taken seriously this summer, following concerns about young people jumping into open water in Great Barford during the recent hot weather.

Speaking about water safety Cllr Martin-Moran-Bryant commented,

“Summer should be a time for young people to enjoy themselves safely, but we must be clear that jumping into open water, especially from bridges or other high structures, can be extremely dangerous.

I am urging everyone to talk openly about water safety and to think twice before entering rivers to cool off. If there is a warning sign, it is there for a good reason so please pay attention to it as what may seem like harmless fun can quickly become a serious emergency.”

Even on warm days rivers and lakes can remain dangerously cold which can lead to sudden cold-water shock can cause gasping, panic, loss of control and difficulty swimming.

Jumping from high structures adds another serious risk.  From these hights water acts more like a solid surface and can cause serious injuries. It can also be very difficult to judge how deep the water is or see what may be hidden beneath the surface.

These are serious risks, with at least 15 people reported to have died in water-related incidents during the recent hot spell across the UK. Additionally, rivers may contain pollution or harmful bacteria, which can cause illness or skin irritation, particularly if water is swallowed or comes into contact with cuts or broken skin.

However, Councillor Phillippa Martin-Moran-Bryant calls go wider than water safety, she is also calling on all visitors to treat Great Barford’s and the wider Borough’s community green spaces with respect.

Much of Bedford Borough is home to wonderful green spaces, riverside settings and surrounding countryside attracting visitors from miles around. But these much-loved spaces are also part of people’s homes and daily lives. While most visitors treat the area with respect, a small minority continue to cause concern through littering, obstructive parking or anti-social behaviour.

Cllr Martin-Moran-Bryant is working with the Community Safety Team, the Council’s Highways Team, the Parish Council and other stakeholders to address nuisance behaviour and help keep the area safe and welcoming for everyone.

Speaking about these issues Cllr Martin-Moran-Bryant also added,

“Our parks, riversides and open spaces are there for everyone to enjoy, but we all have a responsibility to look after them.

I would ask people visiting our community green spaces to take their litter home, park safely and considerately, and respect the people who live nearby.

The majority of visitors are respectful, but the actions of a small minority can spoil these spaces for everyone. I am working with the Community Safety Team, the Council’s Highways Team, the Parish Council and other local partners to tackle nuisance behaviour and keep my ward’s community areas clean and welcoming.”