Yorkshire Water issues open water danger warning after tragic Ulley Reservoir teen death

Yorkshire Water is now urging visitors to its reservoirs not to be tempted to enter the water to cool off as the weather warms up, following an increase in reports of people entering their reservoirs.

Gaynor Craigie, head of land and property at Yorkshire Water, said: “As the weather warms up it is important visitors to our reservoirs are not tempted to get into the water to cool off.

"Sadly, we’ve seen recently the dangers water can pose and it is important visitors to our sites understand entering a reservoir can be dangerous.

“Low water temperatures can cause cold water shock that may lead to hyperventilation, increased blood pressure, breathing difficulties and ultimately death.

"Underwater machinery and the currents associated with their operation are also a potential hazard for people choosing to enter the water.

“We recently backed the National Fire Chiefs Council’s Be Water Aware campaign and would encourage those visiting our reservoirs to do so safely, which means not entering the water and putting themselves at risk.”

Emergency services were called to Ulley reservoir in Rotherham on Friday (28 May) at around 3pm after receiving reports that a teenage boy had got into difficulty in the water.

Sam Haycock sadly died despite gallant efforts from his friends to prevent him from drowning.

His death has been felt across the community, with people paying tribute and offering condolences to his family after the tragic incident.