Public urged to stay safe around water this weekend after young girl drowns in Bury river

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The public is being urged to stay safe near water this hot weekend after the tragic death of a young girl, who drowned in a river in Bury, on Thursday (27 June).

Emergency services quickly responded and underwater search teams were sent to examine the River Irwell, where officers sadly discovered the body of a 12-year-old girl.

Following the tragic incident, police and Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) are urging people to stay safe as temperatures could go above 30 degrees this weekend.

Detective Inspector Andrew Naismith, of GMP’s Bury district, said: “This is an incredibly tragic incident in which a young girl has lost her life, and my thoughts are with her family at this devastating time.

“With the warmer weather, it’s tempting to go into the water to cool off, but I’d like to remind everyone of the dangers of playing near or swimming in rivers, lakes and reservoirs and would strongly urge against this.”

 

 

People are being urged to never swim in open water, as while it may seem like a tempting way to cool off, the drop in temperature can cause shock and increase breathing rate. Muscles will stiffen and fatigue will set in very quickly, making it impossible to swim to safety, even for the strongest of swimmers.

Unknown risks, such as rocks and broken bottles can also be hidden beneath the water and there is often no supervision by lifeguards to help if you if you do get in trouble.

GMFRS Area Manager Damian O’Rourke said: “When it comes to swimming in open water, our message is simple – don’t do it.

"We know that when it is hot it can be tempting, but is not worth the risk.

“Please go out and enjoy the sunny weather this weekend but don’t put your own or anyone else’s safety at risk.

“If someone does get into trouble, don’t try and rescue them yourself, but dial 999.”