28/05/2026
We were saddened to hear of the recent tragic incident at Rother Valley Country Park, alongside other heartbreaking water-related incidents reported across the UK in recent days.
Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with the families, friends and communities affected at this incredibly difficult time. 💙
Sadly, these incidents serve as an important reminder that open water can be unpredictable and dangerous, even during warm weather and when conditions appear calm.
At Colwick Country Park, we continue to work closely with emergency services and partner organisations to promote water safety awareness and encourage responsible use of our lakes and waterways.
Please take care around open water:
⚠️ Avoid entering the water outside of designated and managed activities
👀 Supervise children closely near the water’s edge
🛟 Familiarise yourself with lifesaving equipment locations
📞 In an emergency, call 999 immediately and ask for Fire & Rescue
Please stay safe, look out for one another, and respect the water.
Rother Valley Country Park has now reopened.
We closed the park yesterday as a mark of respect after a young person lost their life on Monday. Our thoughts remain with their family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.
We would like to remind you not to go swimming in open water even if the water looks calm. Shallow water often feels deceptively warmer at the edge of reservoirs, rivers, and lakes.
Never jump into open water where deeper water is often much colder even in hot weather. Cold water shock can kill in 60 seconds.
Please take care when you’re near open water.
If you unexpectedly find yourself in the water:
1. Take a minute, don’t try to swim straight away.
2. Relax and float to catch your breath.
3. Keep calm.
4. Ask someone to call for help and phone 999.
For more information on water safety, please visit➡️ https://www.rotherham.gov.uk/news/article/1231/remember-the-importance-of-water-safety-when-near-open-water-sites
