As temperatures soar, and with more hot weather on the way, Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service is urging people to stay safe this summer as part of the Royal Life Saving Society’s Drowning Prevention Week.

More than 300 people accidentally drown in the UK and Ireland every year and many more suffer injury, sometimes life-changing, when they survive drowning.

A youth had to be rescued in neighbouring Huntingdonshire last week after getting into trouble while swimming in the River Great Ouse.

The fire service says its crews are often called to incidents and are also put at risk if they have to come to the aid of people who get into difficulty in water.

"We want people to enjoy the warm weather now it’s here, but do so safely," said a spokesperson for the service.

"Open water can often be deeper than expected with unanticipated hazards below the surface, and even if the weather is warm, the water can be much, much cooler than people expect.

"The water may also look calm on the surface, but there may still be strong undercurrents, especially near locks, that could pull even the strongest swimmer under.

"There can also be rubbish, like shopping trolleys and rubble hidden beneath the murky water that you could become trapped in.

"There is often broken glass on the riverbed and cuts from this can sometimes lead to infections, as can other water-borne diseases, so it’s really important people take extra care and look out for each other."

The most important thing to remember if you do get into difficulty in water is Float to Live. You should lean back, using your arms and legs to stay afloat, control your breathing, then call for help or swim to safety.

In an emergency call 999 or 112 for the coastguard. If you see someone else in trouble near water, call for help immediately. Never try and carry out a rescue yourself, you could put yourself in danger too.

When visiting inland waterways, you could also be exposed to viruses and diseases including Weils disease, wash hands before eating and drinking and be aware of any open wounds you may have.

If you do decide to visit open water, choose an area you know that you can remain within your depth and wear a buoyancy aid when kayaking or paddle boarding.

If you’re interested in open water swimming, contact your local open water swimming club. They will give you advice and help you enjoy the benefits of nature and open water swimming more safely. Never swim alone and always tell people where you are going.