Swim warning after rise in waterway deaths in London

Strong currents and cold-water shock can affect even the strongest swimmers

The Metropolitan Police has warned Londoners of the dangers of going into rivers and lakes after a recent rise in fatal incidents.

The Met's Marine Policing Unit (MPU) says the River Thames moves at extreme speeds and while the water may look calm, the tides could easily drag someone a mile (1.5km) in just 10 minutes.

Ch Insp Rob Ranstead, who leads the MPU, said: "We absolutely understand the natural draw of rivers, lakes and open water across the city.

"However, we have sadly seen a recent rise in incidents where people have got into difficulty - and very tragically, some have lost their lives."

He has appealed to the public to "please enjoy London's waterways safely, but never underestimate the risks".

While many people may be aware of the dangers of entering the Thames, other waterways can also be dangerous: strong currents, sudden drops, hidden hazards and cold-water shock can affect even the strongest swimmers.

The Met is asking parents to talk to children and young people about the risks as many incidents involve teenagers during school breaks or weekends.

The warning comes after 15-year-old Izaiah Smith died after going swimming in a lake in south-east London.

A few days earlier, 11-year-old Kaliyah Coa went missing after she went paddling in the River Thames near Bargehouse Causeway, in east London during a day off from school. A recovery mission is under way, the Met said.

'Respect the water'

People who do want to swim in the city's waterways are advised not to do so in open water unless it is part of a supervised and safe environment and not to enter the water if they have taken drugs or alcohol.

Ch Insp Ranstead added: "Our officers patrol the River Thames and many of London's waterways on a daily basis.

"We see the heartbreak and devastation these preventable tragedies cause – with families changed forever in a matter of seconds.

"Working with partners we are increasing our visibility and delivering water safety education, but we need the help of the public.

"Please respect the water, look after one another, and think twice before taking unnecessary risks."

The Met also said if people did find themselves in difficulty, they should follow the RNLI's Float to Live steps:

• If you fall into water, fight your instinct to thrash around

• Lean back, extend your arms and legs

• If you need to, gently move them around to help you float

• Float until you can control your breathing

• Only then, call for help or swim to safety.