THRILL-SEEKERS who were filmed on inflatable boats on the fast-moving waters of the River Dane after heavy rain, have been dealt a stark warning by Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service.

The video (above) shows two people on small rubber dinghies flowing down the River Dane through Northwich last week after the heavy rain caused the water level to rise significantly.

The flood defences in Northwich were deployed following the downpour and the Dane’s current gathered pace.

After seeing the footage, Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service prevention manager Steve McCormick said the pair were ‘extremely lucky’ that the river ride did not end in tragedy and urged anyone wanting to get in the water to do so via a professional club.

Steve said: “I cannot stress enough the dangers that exist in going into rivers or reservoirs following the severe flooding, it is so easy to get into difficulties.

“The water may look relatively calm on the surface but there may still be strong undercurrents that could pull even a strong swimmer under.

“Even during summer months the water temperature will be extremely low and can lead to cold water shock, which can leave you panicking and gasping for air.

Northwich Guardian:

“There will be significant hazards under the surface that may not be visible, that can entrap those entering the water. Boat users moving along the river may have difficulty seeing people in the water and there is the risk they could be struck by a moving vessel.

“As local residents will be aware, there has been lots of heavy rain over the past week and the River Dane is extremely volatile and particularly dangerous at the current time.

“There is a rapid increase in flow, where the River’s Dane and Weaver meet and this can often move objects such as fallen tree branches and other debris at great speed through this section of the river, which will pose a risk to those in the water.

“There is also the risk of the river water, potentially carrying infectious substances, certainly where any flood water run-off, from nearby fields and farmlands has entered the river. This can increase the chances of illness or sickness if ingested.

“In this case, the video clearly shows that the two people were not wearing any safety equipment and the inflatable boats that were totally inadequate for the fast-flowing water.

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“We are certainly not trying to stop people from having fun, but this type of activity can result in a major rescue operation which would have required a number of fire resources from across the county - and could even have resulted in the loss of life. In this case, they were extremely lucky and able to get out of the river themselves.

“I would advise anyone who wants to take part in this part in this type of activity to do so via a professional club and utilising appropriate equipment.”