A spokesperson from Goulburn-Murray Water is reminding residents and tourists this holiday season to be wary of irrigation channels when looking for a spot to cool off.
“We want children, families and members of our community to stay safe around irrigation channels in the Goulburn-Murray Water (G-MW) district,” the spokesperson said.
“When the weather is hot many people look for a place to swim, but channels are not the place to cool off.”
Swimming in channels is dangerous because they pose a range of hidden risks.
While a channel might look still and calm, there could be possible dangers hiding beneath the water including.
- Strong undercurrents;
- Hidden pipes;
- Weeds and debris;
- Varying depths;
- Regulator gates that can open and close quickly;
- Drains;
- Submerged trees, sandbars and rocks.
You may be asking, if you shouldn’t swim in the local channel, where can you?
When the weather is hot, families and community members are encouraged to swim at a supervised location like your local public swimming pool.
Check with your local council for pool information and opening hours during summer.
Goulburn-Murray Water also has a range of children’s books that teach youngsters the hidden dangers that exist in irrigation channels.
For more information, visit https://www.g-mwater.com.au/recreation/dont-swim-in-channels
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