South Wales Police have issued a warning following reports of people jumping into the water from Penarth Pier.
Officers say that while the activity may appear harmless, it poses serious dangers, and they will be stepping up high-visibility patrols in Penarth and other coastal areas throughout the summer to deter the behaviour.
A spokesperson for South Wales Police said:
“While they can look tempting, many bodies of water have unseen hazards below the surface or strong currents. Cold-water shock can also mean that even strong swimmers can get into significant difficulty.
People need to remind themselves of the risks and act responsibly, while parents are also urged to remind their children about the dangers.”
The risks include:
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Cold-water shock – a sudden drop in body temperature which can cause a person to gasp and inhale water.
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Unpredictable currents – strong tides and waves can quickly pull people away from safety.
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Hidden hazards – submerged rocks, debris, or other objects could cause serious injury.
Police are reminding the public that anyone entering the water from the pier is not only risking their own life, but also the lives of others should a rescue be required.
The message is simple: stay safe and stay out of the water from Penarth Pier.
