Yorkshire Water urges caution around reservoirs ahead of Easter weekend

Visitors to Yorkshire Water reservoirs are being urged to remain considerate of their behaviour in order to keep themselves and local wildlife safe ahead of the Easter weekend (3-6 April) and the following May Bank Holidays.  

Yorkshire Water’s ranger teams will be out and about throughout the spring and summer engaging with visitors, providing information about the sites and encouraging people to follow the Countryside Code. 

Refraining from using disposable barbecues, taking litter home, and keeping dogs on leads can all help to keep wildlife, the natural environment, and nearby farm animals safe. Disposable barbeques are not permitted on any of Yorkshire Water’s sites, and some of its sites are covered by Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs), meaning people could face on the spot fines if they are found to be using one.  

Alastair Harvey, lead countryside and woodland advisor, said: “We have some fantastic locations in our region that provide the opportunity for people to get outside in the sunshine now that the weather is beginning to improve. We work hard to make the sites accessible and enjoyable for all visitors and it’s important people visiting leave the sites as they would like to find them. That means taking litter away, not using barbecues and parking considerately. 

“Now we’re in spring we’re into bird nesting season and we’re starting to see lambs on farms on the land around our reservoirs. To protect ground-nesting birds and new lambs it's important dogs are kept under control on leads.” 

Swimming in the reservoirs is not allowed, with visitors being encouraged to remain vigilant around the water. Reservoirs can pose a risk to life, through cold water shock, operational equipment under the water, hidden currents and other dangers. 

Alastair added: “Sadly, there were several open water deaths and emergency rescues in the region last year, often involving people who did not intend to enter the water. Swimming and unauthorised water sports are not permitted at our reservoirs, and we would urge people to always remain vigilant around the water and keep an eye on children to reduce the potential for accidents and injury.” 

If visitors do see someone in the water who requires help or a fire, call 999 and ask for the Fire Service immediately – crews are trained and equipped to deal with such incidents.