Residents urged to follow advice when swimming in open water

As we enter the summer months and the weather is getting nicer it can be a relief to take a dip in a nearby river or lake.

This type of swimming is called open water swimming. However, open water swimming can increase the risk of gastrointestinal illnesses, or stomach bugs, which may cause diarrhoea and/or vomiting, as well as respiratory, skin, ear and eye infections. Anyone can become unwell from swimming in any open water as there will always be micro-organisms present. The risk of becoming ill depends on various factors:

• children and novice swimmers are more likely to swallow water accidentally.

• those with an impaired immune system are more susceptible to infection.

• those swimming in rivers and estuaries are more likely to become unwell.

• heavy rainfall can wash harmful bacteria from agricultural land, urban areas and sewage to rivers, seas and bathing waters and affect water quality.

Follow the advice below to ensure you and your family stay safe:

Use the Environment Agencies resources to check water quality information and pollution risk forecast in the area you will be swimming in. Always look for signs at the beach or on river banks before swimming.

Cover cuts, scratches or sores with a waterproof plaster before swimming and wear appropriate protective clothing such as a wetsuit, gloves or protective footwear.

Try to avoid swallowing or splashing water into your mouth.

After you have finished swimming make sure you thoroughly clean your hands, any cuts and all swim wear or clothing with soap.

For more tips and resources, visit Swim healthy - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

You can also report polluted rivers or other open water to Thames Water via their app, find out more here Report issues using online map | Newsroom | Thames Water

If you fancy a dip without having to worry, all of our leisure centres have fantastic pools and lots of family friendly sessions. Find out more on Everyone Active’s sites, Cranleigh Leisure Centre, Haslemere Leisure Centre, Godalming & Farncombe Leisure Centre and Farnham Leisure Centre.