This is what councils are doing to prevent open-water tragedies in South Yorkshire amid UK heatwaves
In May, two young people lost their lives in open water in South Yorkshire
South Yorkshire’s councils have set out how they act to reduce the risk of people getting into trouble in open water amid the heatwave.
Temperatures as high as a record-breaking 37C led to an amber weather warning and rare red extreme heat warning across England this week.
Part of why extreme heat increases the risk of danger to life is how it drives people to visit coastal areas and bodies of water - making it more likely people will struggle and drown in deceptively cold or deep water.
In May, two young people lost their lives in open water in South Yorkshire.
Muhammad Secka, aged 16, died after disappearing at Rother Valley Country Park on May 25.
Days later, Mackenzie Swift, aged 11, in the River Don at Mexborough on May 30. His body was found on June 2 after an intensive search.
The Star asked South Yorkshire’s local authorities what they were doing to prevent tragedies in the county’s parks and wild swimming spots, many of which already have public warnings not to swim in them.
The responses by Sheffield, Barnsley and Rotherham’s councils are below. Doncaster City Council did not reply to any requests.
Sheffield City Council
Sheffield is home to several large bodies of water, most prominently the pond at Crookes Valley Park, which remains a regular site for swimming despite signs warning residents not to enter.
Sheffield City Council said additional patrols are arranged for the park.
A spokesperson said: “We provide water safety signage in our parks where there is deep water reminding park users that deep water is not safe.
“The advice for Crookes Valley Park is not to go into the water.
“Annual water safety campaigns take place with South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue and the university in Crookes Valley Park. These campaigns remind park users of the dangers of deep water and cold-water shock and give lifesaving advice.
“There is comprehensive rescue equipment around the Crookes Valley Park which was checked on June 12.
“Additional patrols are currently being carried out in Crookes Valley Park by the Council’s Sustainable Communities Team.”
Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council
RMBC stated extra patrols and security are underway at Rother Valley Country Park, where Muhammed Secka lost his life in May.
Rotherham Council’s executive director of environment, Andrew Bramidge said: “During periods of hot weather, we will have enhanced security measures in place across Rother Valley Country Park.
“This includes increased patrols and the use of CCTV to deter unauthorised access to the water. Additional medical support and trained first aiders will also be on site to ensure visitor safety.
“Last weekend, the park also hosted a well‑attended multi‑agency water safety training event involving local schools and community groups, reinforcing our ongoing commitment to visitor safety.
“Increased patrols will also be in place at Thrybergh and Ulley Country Park.”
Barnsley Metropolitan Country Park
Barnsley’s local authority noted that no council-owned sites in the borough “are suitable for swimming” and warns the public of this.
Matt O'Neill, executive director for place at Barnsley Council, said: “During the current heatwave, residents are being encouraged to enjoy Barnsley’s outdoor spaces safely and take care around open water.
“None of the council-owned sites across the borough is suitable for swimming, and water conditions can change quickly, so it’s important to stay aware of the risks. Parents and carers play an important role by talking to children and young people about how to stay safe.
“Barnsley Council is supporting safety at popular sites, including Cannon Hall, Langsett, Worsborough Mill and along the Dearne. Where wardens are on patrol, they will check open-water sites and report any concerns or incidents.
“The council is also working closely with partners to raise awareness to help families have positive conversations about staying safe.”
Doncaster City Council
Doncaster City Council did not reply or acknowledge The Star’s request.
Float to Live
Prior to the tragedy in which Mackenzie Swift lost his life in Mexborough, South Yorkshire Police was called to an incident of someone getting in trouble in water in Mill Lane, Sprotborough, on May 26.
A South Yorkshire Police spokesperson said: “In the wake of tragedies over the Bank Holiday weekend [Muhammed Secka], we are re-sharing importance advice on how to stay safe around open water.
“Never jump into open bodies of water – this can cause cold water shock and impact on your ability to swim-
“Do not ‘drink and swim’ – alcohol can significantly impact your ability to swim and get to safety
“Don’t be peer pressured into swimming where you aren’t comfortable, or if you can’t swim
“If you get into trouble, float to live - more information on this is available on the South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue website https://orlo.uk/ubbsE
“If a friend gets into trouble, encourage them to float to live and call 999 immediately
“Those who have lost their lives in recent tragedies have been teenagers - if you're a parent, have a conversation with your sons and daughters. It could save a life.
“For water safety advice visit https://www.rospa.com/water-safety/summer-water-safety”
Grieving mother
This week, the grieving mother of Mackenzie Swift appealed to parents everywhere to be aware of the danger of open water.
Suzie Gough, 48, said: "They went because it was warm outside.
"The last words I said to him was 'don't go too far, I need you back home in an hour' as it was getting late into the evening, and I wanted him inside and ready for bed.
"But I never saw him again.
"I'll never forget when the police told me he was missing after playing in the river, my world fell from beneath me.
"Open water is not a joke, lives can be changed in an instant.