28/05/2026
With the warm weather continuing, we understand why people want to cool off around the water.
But over the last few days there have sadly been multiple fatalities involving children in open water across the UK, and we are seeing increasing numbers of people entering the water at Salford Quays, swimming in unsupervised areas and jumping from bridges and walls.
We need people to understand the risks.
It’s not just about swimming ability. Cold water shock, hidden objects beneath the surface and underwater hazards can affect even the strongest swimmers.
Even on hot days, the water remains cold. When your body is warm, suddenly entering cold water can cause your body to go into shock within seconds, leading to panic, gasping and loss of breathing control.
Jumping into canals and open water is extremely dangerous. Water depths can vary, visibility is poor and there is a real risk of serious injury from hidden objects or shallow areas.
Adults - please remember that young people are watching. Children and teenagers look to adults to understand what is safe behaviour, and it has been very disappointing to recently see dangerous behaviour from adults taking place in front of children.
We also ask people to respect the environment around the Quays. Salford Quays is home to a wide range of wildlife, and the amount of litter being left behind is upsetting to see. Please respect your local area and dispose of rubbish responsibly.
Salford Quays is covered by a Public Space Protection Order, and the water itself is subject to byelaws. This means entering the water without authorisation, including swimming, is prohibited.
The supervised activities operated by Salford Watersports Centre are fully risk assessed and controlled by qualified staff who are trained to supervise and lifeguard those specific activities only.
Unauthorised access to the water, including jumping from walls and bridges, puts not only yourselves at risk, but also your friends, families, our staff and the emergency services who may be required to respond.
Please respect the water, respect your local area and look after yourselves and each other.
Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine responsibly.