AS the temperature rises, and the school holidays loom, the local ambulance service is urging people to stay safe around water.

South Central Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust is advising that people take extra care around water, both at home and in public places.

Tony Heselton, paramedic and SCAS safeguarding lead, said: “It is vitally important that people heed this advice and only attempt to swim in safe areas where there are the appropriate safety precautions should you get into difficulty.”