WILD swimming – taking a dip in rivers and lakes – has never been more popular, but Oxford bathers are being advised to think before they dive in.

Oxford City Council is taking advantage of Drowning Prevention Week to urge swimmers to know their Wild Water Code before they maker a splash.

Drowning Prevention Week – which runs until June 26 – is a national campaign organised by the Royal Life Saving Society UK, which aims to ensure that everyone has the skills and knowledge to stay safe around water.

Oxford is surrounded by waterways but many have an industrial past that leave hidden dangers as well as natural dangers. Hidden debris can cause injuries, pollutants and run offs can make swimmers sick, and cold water can put even strong swimmers at risk. It is emphasising the importance of staying safe around natural bodies of water such as rivers and lakes.

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The dangers of swimming in wild water include:

• Cold temperatures. The temperature in a lake or river can be much colder than you expect, even in summer. Extremely cold water can cause shock.

• Strong currents. A strong undertow can be dangerous.

• Hidden dangers. When you jump into a river or lake, you can’t always see what’s underneath. People regularly throw objects into lakes and rivers such as bicycles, shopping trolleys or even broken glass.

• Water quality. As Oxford is a city, the quality of water in the area can vary. Water that is contaminated, such as with pesticides from farmland, is a health risk.

• Shallow water. Moving water can be deceptively shallow and jumping in could cause serious injury.

• Don’t drink and drown – drink or drugs are a lethal cocktail when swimming. They can limit your ability to swim, lower your inhibitions and increase the chance of taking dangerous risks.

City councillor Mary Clarkson said: “On a hot day it’s so tempting to jump in the river to cool off. But jumping straight in can have frightening, and sometimes tragic, consequences. Even strong swimmers can get into difficulties if the water’s too cold or there’s hidden debris. We have safe, local swimming pools across the city, including Hinksey Outdoor Pool. If you do decide to take a risk on our rivers and lakes, please know your wild water code and think before you take a dip."

Oxford does not yet have any designated bathing places. However the council is hoping to improve water quality in Oxford, which it hopes will lead to a safe bathing site.