Teenager, 18, dies in Manchester reservoir during 30C heatwave

An 18-year-old man has been been found dead at a reservoir in Greater Manchester.

Emergency services responded to an incident at Dovestone Reservoir, Oldham, at around 7pm yesterday, Greater Manchester Police said.

They found the 18-year-old unresponsive in the water, where he was pronounced dead at the scene despite the efforts of medical professionals.

A scene remains in place and inquiries are ongoing, police said.

TRENDING

Stories

Videos

Your Say

Detective Inspector Steven Horton, from GMP’s Oldham district, said: “We have tragically recovered the body of an 18-year-old man from the water and are conducting extensive inquiries to establish the full circumstances.

“Our thoughts remain with his family and friends during this incredibly difficult time.

“I would like to take this opportunity to remind the public of the dangers of open water. We strongly encourage people to stay safe and refrain from entering large bodies of water including reservoirs, rivers, canals, or ponds.

“Your safety is our priority. Please look after yourselves and enjoy the weather safely.”

The death came as forecasters said a heatwave across the UK would continue this weekend.

The Met Office said temperatures across England and Wales will continue to exceed 30C on Saturday and Sunday, and it warned people planning on enjoying the water to remain careful and check the water temperature to avoid cold water shock.

The UK Health Security Agency has warned of a potential increase in water-related incidents, including risks from cold water shock and drowning, as the hot weather continues.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS

• Stratford station fire leaves 46 train services cancelled for travellers this weekend
• Greens push for vegan food offerings to be legal requirement under Equality Act
• Police release man arrested on suspicion of murdering Ann Widdecombe

During the infamous May heatwave, at least 15 people - mostly children - drowned while swimming in open water.

On Friday, Derbyshire Constabulary announced that the body of an 18-year-old man had been recovered from the water near the weir at the Darley Abbey Mills complex after two teenagers got into difficulty.

Another tragic incident saw a 13-year-old boy's body pulled from the water after "getting into difficulty" in Leadbeater Dam in Halifax during the May heat.

Ross Macleod, RNLI water safety manager, warned the sea and other open bodies of water remain cold enough year-round to trigger cold water shock, which can cause "uncontrollable gasping, increased heart rate, and can lead to panic and drowning very quickly".

“It’s best to enter the water slowly to gradually acclimatise," he added.

"Anyone who finds themselves in danger in the water should fight the panic instinct and float to live - try to relax and float on their back, with head tilted back, gently moving their hands and legs to help them stay afloat."

Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter