YOUNG people are being urged to stay out of the water.

When the weather warms, young people are risking their lives by jumping in canals and rivers to cool down, according to the Canal and River Trust.

Of the 400 people who drown in the UK every year , more than half the fatalities happen at inland waters such as canals, rivers, lakes, quarries and reservoirs.

Tony Stammers, who heads the Canal and River Trust’s safety team said: “Spending time along a canal or river is a lovely way to spend a summer’s day and they are excellent places for families to explore during the holidays.

"But it’s also important that people, especially children and teenagers, are aware of the dangers of cooling off by going for a dip. The consequences can be devastating.

“Inland waterways, like canals, rivers and docks, can look really inviting but you can’t tell what is below the surface. The water is often murky and you won’t be able to see the depth or any obstacles in the water.

"We’re asking people to find another way to cool off this summer – have an ice cream, stay in the shade, go for a swim at your local pool.

"Please don’t get in the water, it’s just not worth it.”

The charity is asking people to find other ways to cool down this summer and to avoid getting in the water. Risks include:

To find out more about staying safe near water go to https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/about-us/our-campaigns/safety-on-our-waterways/summer-safety