THE dangers of tampering with life-saving equipment have been re-emphasised after a group of youths threw a life ring into the water.

Workington Nature Partnership had to intervene when the youngsters decided to throw the life ring into the water at Harrington Nature Reserve.

It comes as police continue to search Crummock Water after a swimmer got into difficulty last Friday.

The bodies of a teenage boy and a man have already been found in Carlisle and Brothers Water after they went swimming in the heatwave.

“They thought that it would be a laugh but in reality the equipment is there so it can save someone’s life," said Raegan Blacker, the Workington Nature Partnership Officer.

“We advise everyone to take care when around the water.

“Although it doesn’t seem deep it still can be very dangerous particularly at this nature reserve due to the mud and silt which can cause a drowning hazard.”

The penalty for tampering with safety equipment is a £5,000 fine.

WNP advises no-one to enter their waters as they are important habitats for the wildlife.

Warnings have been issued this week as many people who visit underestimate the dangers involved with cold water shock which may lead to people getting into difficulty.

It is also easy to underestimate how strong currents can be in rivers and lakes.

The WNP suggests no-one should go near water areas alone.

Miss Blacker added: “We want to keep blue spaces safe so we advise people not to leave barbecues and broken glass after they visit.

“This can be dangerous to both the wildlife and children.

“Everyone should enjoy the spaces safely and responsibly and look out for others around them.

“Whilst swimming in the sea people should also be cautious of jellyfish as they are common on our shores at this time of year.”