Open water warning after reports of children in lake

Firefighters have issued a warning about the dangers of open water after crews were called to reports of children in a lake.

The fire service was called to Whitfield Valley Nature Reserve in Stoke-on-Trent at about 20:15 BST on Monday following reports that three children had entered the water.

Four fire engines attended alongside police and ambulance crews and searched the area, but nobody was found in the lake.

Station Manager Jon Jackson said it was later established that the children had made their own way home before emergency services arrived.

There were several water-related deaths across the country after hot weather hit the nation last month.

Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service is reminding people to take care around lakes, rivers and other open water sites, particularly during warmer weather.

Jackson, who attended the scene, said: "I would remind people that whilst open water might seem inviting, there can be hidden dangers, such as sharp items and strong currents.

"The water is also likely to be much colder than you expect, making it hard to swim.

"If you get into trouble in water, remember to float on your back until help arrives."

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