Police have issued a stark warning about the dangers of swimming in open water during hot weather after the tragic death of 15-year-old Izaiah Smith, who drowned in a lake at Beckenham Place Park on Friday, April 4.
Tragic Incident Highlights Dangers
Izaiah, a talented young footballer, was pulled from the lake around 10:45 pm after getting into difficulty while swimming. Despite efforts by emergency services, he was pronounced dead at the hospital. The incident has left the local community and his football club devastated.
A statement from Izaiah’s football club expressed their profound grief:
“It is of course impossible to find the words to explain what a tragedy this is.
Izaiah was a hugely popular and talented young man and will be sorely missed by all that knew him.
Izaiah’s death is the second open water tragedy in London within a week. 11-year-old Kayleigh Coa remains missing after entering the River Thames near London City Airport on March 31. The young girl was reportedly playing on a slipway in Woolwich before disappearing, prompting an extensive river search.
Police Warn of Open Water Dangers
The Met’s Marine Policing Unit (MPU) has reported a rise in water-related incidents recently, often resulting in fatalities. Chief Inspector Rob Ranstead, head of the MPU, warned against the allure of London’s waterways:
“We see the heartbreak and devastation these preventable tragedies cause – with families changed forever in a matter of seconds.
We absolutely understand the natural draw of rivers, lakes, and open water across the city.
However, we have sadly seen a recent rise in incidents where people have got into difficulty – and very tragically, some have lost their lives.
Open water may appear calm and inviting, but it can be dangerously deceptive.”
The Risks of Open Water
Chief Inspector Ranstead stressed that open water poses numerous hazards:
- Strong Currents: Even the calm-looking Thames has rapid, powerful tides.
- Sudden Drops: Hidden underwater changes in depth can catch swimmers off guard.
- Cold-Water Shock: Even on hot days, water temperature can cause muscle cramps and shock.
- Hidden Hazards: Debris or submerged objects can cause injury.
He specifically highlighted the dangers of the River Thames:
“Once a person is in the Thames, they will almost definitely struggle to keep afloat or in control. The river holds currents stronger than any person and moves at extreme speeds.”
Safety Advice for the Public
The MPU, working with partners such as the RNLI, HM Coastguard, and London Fire Brigade, has issued the following advice:
- Do not swim in open water unless it is part of a supervised and safe environment.
- Avoid entering water when under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Educate children about the risks, as many incidents involve teenagers during breaks or weekends.
If you find yourself unexpectedly in the water, the RNLI’s ‘Float to Live’ advice is:
- Fight your instinct to thrash around.
- Lean back, extending your arms and legs.
- Move gently to help you float.
- Control your breathing before calling for help or swimming to safety.
A Persistent Issue
The MPU responds to over 140 incidents per month on the River Thames alone. With warmer weather expected, police are urging the public to take extra precautions to prevent further tragedies.
The loss of Izaiah Smith has struck a chord across London, with social media filled with heartfelt tributes and calls for more public awareness around open water safety. As the weather heats up, police hope that raising awareness can help prevent more families from enduring similar heartbreak.
