AS the warm weather continues, a warning has been made to anyone tempted to cool off with a swim in fresh waters.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service is asking members of the public to think before they swim in a river, canal, lake or reservoir.

The Service is regularly called to incidents where people get into difficulties in the water.

Assistant County Fire Officer Geoff Harris, GMFRS’ Director of Prevention and Protection, said: "Swimming in open waters is far different to swimming in a public pool. The temperature can claim your life in minutes – even if you are a strong swimmer.

"Quite often we find it is young people feeling pressure from friends to take risks around water. We would urge people to look after each other and think before getting involved."

Risks include water getting into the lungs, lose of movement or going into shock due to cold temperatures, and hypothermia leading to unconsciousness.

"Furthermore, there is no supervision, no lifeguards on hand, no suitable steps to get in and out of the water and there is no way of knowing the depth of the water, the current or what lies beneath the surface," Mr Harris added.

"People can dive in and become trapped in weeds or even hit their heads on sharp objects."

The warning follows the death of a 16-year-old boy who got into difficulties in the River Etherow in Broadbottom on Tuesday.

For information and advice on how to keep safe visit http://www.manchesterfire.gov.uk/fire_safety_advice/seasonal_safety/water_safety.aspx