Water safety experts warn of dangers of outdoor swimming as heatwave grips UK
Water safety experts are warning about the dangers of outdoor swimming during the current heatwave in the UK. At least seven people have died in recent days while trying to cool off in various bodies of water. Experts emphasize the importance of swimming at supervised locations with lifeguards and being aware of cold water shock.
- ▪At least seven people have died in water-related incidents during the current heatwave in the UK.
- ▪Experts recommend swimming only at locations with lifeguards present.
- ▪Cold water shock is a significant risk as water temperatures remain low despite high air temperatures.
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Water safety experts have called for people to enter the water at locations with lifeguards. Photograph: Justin Tallis/AFP/Getty ImagesView image in fullscreenWater safety experts have called for people to enter the water at locations with lifeguards. Photograph: Justin Tallis/AFP/Getty ImagesExtreme heatWater safety experts warn of dangers of outdoor swimming as heatwave grips UKAt least seven people have died in recent days as people have tried to cool off in Britain’s waterwaysIan Sample Science editorWed 27 May 2026 10.26 EDTLast modified on Wed 27 May 2026 10.27 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleWater safety experts have warned about the dangers of outdoor swimming after a spike in drownings as people try to escape soaring temperatures by cooling off in rivers, lakes, reservoirs…
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