As summer holidays roll in, a warning has been issued to everyone planning to visit Severn Trent's reservoirs.

The sites, known for providing inexpensive and activity-filled day out, are equipped with facilities such as walking and cycling routes, bird watching spots, fishing amenities, cafes, restaurants, and children's play areas.

Despite the attractive prospect of dipping in the open waters under the warm sun, the reservoirs carry hidden hazards.

These include strong currents, frigid temperatures, and concealed objects under the water that may pose serious risks.

Unauthorised swimming in these reservoirs is strongly discouraged.

The usually icy water can induce a gasping reflex, potentially leading to drowning, even among those who are strong swimmers.

The reservoirs are operational sites, with under-the-surface machinery that can generate strong currents.

They often have steep sides and can suddenly become very deep.

Unseen natural obstructions like weeds, rocks or toxic blue-green algae could be present in the water.

Furthermore, not all sites are staffed, and rescue may not be immediately available for those who get into trouble.

Severn Trent owns several reservoir visitor sites scattered across the region.

These include Carsington, Linacre Water, Upper Derwent Valley, and Foremark Reservoir, all located in Derbyshire.

There's Thornton Water in Leicestershire, Staunton Harold Water on the Leicestershire/Derbyshire border, Draycote and Shustoke Water in Warwickshire, Tittesworth Water in Staffordshire, and Trimpley Water in Worcestershire.

Donna Marshall, visitor engagement manager at Severn Trent, said: “Now summer has finally arrived we’re looking forward to welcoming families and people to our wonderful visitor sites.

"We take the safety of all our visitors extremely seriously and want them to remain conscious of the dangers that can result from entering the water. We don’t have lifeguards on site or safe swimming areas, so we’d ask visitors to not take that risk."

Visitors are urged to remain cautious and stay safe when visiting these locations.