Walsall lake tragedy: Here's the official advice on staying safe around water

Spencer Hurst had been swimming at the pool with friends when he got into difficulty and disappeared from sight, on what was one of the hottest days of the year.

It happened at the same spot where another teenage died a decade ago.

MORE: Boy, 15, dies after getting into difficulty swimming with friends

MORE: "They tried to grab his hand and he went under": Community in shock at tragedy

Firefighters said yesterday's tragedy came a day after another boy, 16, died after going swimming in a reservoir in Rochdale.

West Midlands Fire Service Area Commander Ben Brook said: “Both incidents serve as tragic reminders of the dangers of swimming in open water.

"This was a particularly distressing incident for everyone involved, not least family and friends of the teenager who were at the scene. Our thoughts and sympathies are with them all.

“We absolutely understand the temptation to swim, have fun and cool down during the heatwave, but we are asking people not to. It simply isn’t worth the risk nor the heartbreak for all involved when things go wrong.”

"Drowning is one of the most common causes of death for people under 16 in the summer months. Many victims misjudge how well they can swim, often unaware of how cold the water can be and what this does to their stamina and strength.

"Young children can drown in just a couple of inches of water, and most drownings of children aged five or under happen in or around the home."

Here's the official advice on water safety from West Midlands Fire Service:

"Drowning is the third most common cause of accidental deaths of those under 16 years of age, particularly during July and August.

Many victims misjudge how well they can swim, often unaware of how cold the water can be and what this does to their stamina and strength.

Young children can drown in just a couple of inches of water, and most drownings of children aged five or under happen in or around the home.

The RLSS have more information, and you can find out more about pond safety and child holiday swimming pool safety from RoSPA."

At The Beach

The most common time for children to have an accident on holiday is in the first hour, when parents are usually unpacking and might be distracted.

Speak to your travel agent or locals to find out the safest times to enter the sea, and make sure you’ve had a look around for any dangers yourself.

Never swim on your own, and avoid swimming near or diving from things such as piers or rocks. Should you find yourself in trouble, put your hand in the air and shout for help.

If you see someone in danger who needs help, always call for help and ring 999 to ask for the fire service or coastguard.

You should never attempt a rescue yourself, as you could also put yourself at risk. Instead, try finding something that can help them float, such a life ring, stick or empty bottle with the top off.

Around Open Water

85% of all drownings in the UK happen in open water such as rivers, canals, lakes, quarries and reservoirs. You might be tempted to go for a dip to cool off, but whilst it might be warm outside the temperature under water surfaces can be so cold it stops your muscles from functioning properly.

Never jump or dive straight into open water, the depth can be unpredictable, you might not be able to see objects underneath and your body needs to naturally adjust to the temperature.

Before you get in make sure you’re familiar with the area, including signs and advice, and think about what you might do if things go wrong. If you can see fast-flowing water, DON’T get in – currents can quickly sweep people away.