Police divers issue warning over 'hidden dangers'

PC Matthew Edgar says Hull Bridge, Tickton, is a hotspot for young people jumping but the water contains hidden dangers

A specialist team of police divers have issued a warning about jumping into water as the school holidays start.

Humberside Police said bridges can be "attractive but dangerous places" for young people to jump from but posed "hidden dangers".

They said debris in the water can cause serious injuries and, following recent hot weather, water levels in streams and rivers are more shallow, which leads to an increased risk.

PC Matthew Edgar, from the underwater search unit, said: "Last year there was quite a high number of casualties for our recovery team. Parents, please be aware where your children are and please try and educate them as best you can."

The team covers a geographical area of almost 6,000 miles (9,656km) across Yorkshire, assisting in the search for evidence and missing people, but said one of their biggest concerns is water safety.

In addition to natural hazards, officers said waterways can contain shopping trolleys, bits that have fallen off boats and metal poles and scaffolding, which are obscured from view.

The team has undertaken a series of "clearance dives" - a survey of obstacles beneath the surface of known jumping hotspots, such as Hull Bridge in Tickton.

The underwater search unit from Humberside Police has been performing clearance dives to assess potential hazards

The team of 10 divers was keen to stress it did not want to spoil fun but urged people to take notice of warning signs and extra care when entering waterways.

They added: "With the summer holidays in full swing, and as the warm weather continues leading up to the August Bank Holiday weekend, we want to remind people about the dangers of open water.

"We're urging people to take precautions to ensure the safety of themselves, their families, and those around them."

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