People in Lichfield and Burntwood are being urged not to cool off in open water as temperatures rise.
A period of warm weather is sweeping in for the rest of the week.
But Cllr Victoria Wilson, cabinet member for communities and culture at Staffordshire County Council, said it was important people did not risk taking a dip in open water.
“I understand people wanting to cool off by going for a swim, but plunging into open water is completely different to swimming in a safe, controlled pool and can be very dangerous, even for experienced swimmers.
“No matter how warm the day, large bodies of water stay very cold – and that can cause cold water shock, which can lead to a sudden loss of consciousness.”
Cllr Victoria Wilson, Staffordshire County Council
Swimmers in lakes and reservoirs are also at risk from becoming entangled in underwater weeds and dumped rubbish or being caught out by unseen currents and other dangers, such as sudden increases in depth at location such as Chasewater.
“These accidents often happen when people are relaxed, happy and having a good time and the idea of it being dangerous isn’t really in their minds.
“We would urge people to use common sense – no matter how appealing a stretch of water looks ‘no swimming’ signs are there for a reason, please stay safe.”
Cllr Victoria Wilson, Staffordshire County Council
