EMERGENCY services are warning people about the dangers of swimming in rivers and lakes. 

With summer approaching more people will be heading out in the sunshine and may want to cool off in the lakes. 

However, Cumbria Fire and Rescue warns that this can be dangerous as the water by still be cold, even on a hot day. 

A spokesperson said: "Our county has lots of beauty spots near the water and they are especially nice to enjoy when the sun is shining.

"We don't want to spoil people's fun by telling them not to jump into rivers and lakes, but we do feel it is important to educate the whole community about the risk open water poses if you are not a trained professional with the correct equipment.

"Prevention is always better than cure. We want people to enjoy the water safely and we are fully committed to preventing drowning incidents from happening in the first place.

"In order to do this, more education is needed, not just in schools but also through engaging with the public in awareness campaigns, so that people fully understand the risks and are better prepared."