18-year-old man dies in reservoir during heatwave
In another tragedy connected to the heatwave, a teenager has died in a reservoir
An 18-year-old man has died at a reservoir in Greater Manchester, police said as they warned of the dangers of going into open water.
It’s the latest in a series of tragedies connected to the heatwaves this summer including 12-year-old Junior Slater, from Clayton-le-Wood, Chorley, who died after getting into difficulties in the River Ribble in Ribchester in May.
Emergency services responded to the latest incident at Dovestone Reservoir, Oldham, at around 7pm on Friday, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said.
They found the 18-year-old unresponsive in the water and he was pronounced dead at the scene despite efforts of medical professionals, the force added. A scene remains in place and inquiries are ongoing, police said.
Detective Inspector Steven Horton, from GMP’s Oldham district, said: “We have tragically recovered the body of an 18-year-old man from the water and are conducting extensive inquiries to establish the full circumstances.
“Our thoughts remain with his family and friends during this incredibly difficult time.
“I would like to take this opportunity to remind the public of the dangers of open water. We strongly encourage people to stay safe and refrain from entering large bodies of water including reservoirs, rivers, canals, or ponds.
“Your safety is our priority. Please look after yourselves and enjoy the weather safely.”
The death came as forecasters said a heatwave across the UK would continue this weekend and into next week.
The Met Office said temperatures across England and Wales will continue to exceed 30C on Saturday and Sunday, and it warned people planning on enjoying the water to remain careful and check the water temperature to avoid cold water shock.