Police and fire officials issue warning over open swimming after Ulley Reservoir death

Emergency services were called to the reservoir at 6.10pm following reports that a man had got into difficulty after jumping into the water and recovered his body from the water at just after 9pm.

The man has not yet been named.

Chief Insp Mark Goddard said yesterday's incident, coming just four months after student Sam Haycock died at the beauty spot, had left everyone shaken, adding: "My heart goes out to the man's family and loved ones – a truly tragic loss of life.

“While I would ask people to avoid speculation as to the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident, I would urge everyone to be mindful of the serious danger posed by swimming in open water.”

SYFR area manager Simon Dunker added: “This is a tragic incident, and the thoughts of all at South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue are with this man’s friends and family at this sad time.

“Unfortunately, we have seen far too many people lose their lives in open water this year, and we stand with our police colleagues in urging people to be extremely careful around open water – especially as the nights draw in and temperatures drop colder.”

"Although open water swimming may seem inviting, freezing temperatures, hidden currents and debris underneath the water can all pose grave dangers to those who aren't used to swimming in open water."

Both emergency services have given advice on water safety including: 

- The water might be much deeper and much colder than you expect

- Even if the weather is warm, cold water can dramatically affect your ability to swim

- There may be unexpected currents which can pull you under

- There can be hidden rocks, rubbish or reeds which can cause you to become tangled or cause injury.