Stay safe at our reservoirs

We want to keep all visitors to our recreational sites safe, and with over 150 reservoirs across the North West, it’s vital to spread the message that reservoirs are beautiful – but deadly.

Reservoirs can be extremely dangerous, and are not the place for swimming even on the warmest of days. Here, we have some useful information for parents, teachers, and young people to spread awareness of our water safety messaging.

  • Deep water and steep sides make it difficult to get out, and hidden machinery can be a hazard
  • Remote locations mean It may be difficult for emergency services to help anyone in trouble
  • Strong currents can be caused by machinery under the water
  • Cold water shock can take your breath away and lead to panic, as the water is extremely cold

Paul Philips, Northern Catchment Manager, tells the real life story of when a young boy drowned in front of his family at Thirlmere Reservoir. He urges everyone to warn their family and friends of the dangers of swimming in reservoirs.

60 Seconds of Summer

Watch the trailer for ’60 Seconds of Summer’ a play about 13 year old Dylan Ramsay from Chorley who tragically lost his life in open water.

Important notice

Heavy rainfall and sewer flooding

The heavy rainfall may be causing flooding in some parts of the region.

Our teams are out working hard across the region helping our customers who have experienced sewer flooding in their homes.

If you’re experiencing flooding from a road or footpath and there is no evidence of sewage (toilet paper etc.) please report this to your local council, who are responsible for highways drainage flooding.

Please be aware that our phone lines are much busier than normal, take a look at our flooding page for further advice on what to do if you’re affected by flooding.

Heavy rainfall across the North West may be causing flooding in some parts of the region. Our teams are out working hard across the region helping our customers who have experienced sewer flooding in their homes.

Flooding advice

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