Mark Pawsey, MP for Rugby and Bulkington has lent his support to the Mineral Products Association’s (MPA) “Stay Safe” campaign.
The campaign is aiming to raise awareness of the risks of drowning in quarry lakes, reservoirs and similar types of open water. According to the UK Drowning Prevention Strategy, there are approximately 400 accidental drownings each year across the UK.
Mark commented:
“Particularly in the very hot weather we are currently enjoying, there will be a temptation to try to cool off by swimming in a quarry or reservoir. However, this is extremely dangerous and could prove fatal for those who try it.”
Mark continued:
“I was very pleased to learn the MPA have already written to a number of schools around Rugby, to warn them of the dangers of nearby quarries. What many people, especially young people, do not realise is that although the weather may be extremely warm, the water will be stone cold and this can lead to “cold water shock”, which can prove fatal even to strong swimmers.”
Mark concluded:
“The MPA have taken steps to try and ensure that quarries around Rugby are safe and that there are signs and fences to warn people about the dangers of swimming in quarries and I would urge local residents to stay safe and stay out of open water.”