POLICE have issued a safety warning after reports of people swimming in quarries in the Martley and Tenbury areas.
The alert came after people sought open water in Worcestershire amid record-breaking temperatures over the bank holiday weekend.
PC Kim Jones, West Mercia Police officer for Martley and Tenbury, said: “Quarries are much deeper than lakes, if you swim in one of them you are exposing yourself to cold water shock.
“This can cause panic or hyperventilation. Your muscles can weaken quickly which means you are at a higher risk of drowning.”
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Quarry water often contains hidden hazards such as sharp rocks, metal, and abandoned machinery.
There is also a risk of sudden drop-offs, entanglement in debris or vegetation, and unstable edges that could collapse.
PC Jones said: “Loose rocks can fall without warning, edges can crumble under your weight and climbing in and out can be difficult or impossible in some places.”
The water in quarries may also be contaminated with chemicals, heavy metals, or bacteria due to limited circulation.
Issuing a Neighbourhood Alert, PC Jones added: “Quarry water isn’t always safe, may contain chemicals, heavy metals or low PH (acidic water).
“There is limited circulation which can cause algae or bacteria build up which means any cuts etc could become infected.
“Whilst it looks inviting we suggest you swim in a safer environment and where you are allowed to without trespassing.”
