NI Water has issued a warning to parents and youths about the dangers of playing near treatment works, reservoirs and construction sites.

Cathy Uprichard, Safety, Health, and Environment Manager at NI Water, said: "Understandably, natural curiosity will draw children and young people towards some of our sites. However, these are not playgrounds and fooling around at or near them can have very serious consequences.

"I would urge all parents to explain to their children the dangers of playing in or around these areas. The remoteness of many of our sites could hamper and delay rescue attempts, should such a need arise.

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"Similarly, we would also encourage parents to highlight the dangers of open water, and reservoirs, and playing near them. Reservoir water is bitterly cold even in the summer, so imagine what it is like when temperatures are still relatively low.

"As daylight hours are longer, this advice can be even more useful. Summer is a time for enjoyment and happy memories – don't ruin it by taking unnecessary risks. Play Safe & Stay Safe."

NI Water has some simple steps on how to stay safe:

• Don't climb on barriers and fences - They are there to protect you from serious injury and accidents when NI Water construction work is going on.

• Stay away from trenches and open manholes - They are dirty, deep and dangerous. They may also contain hazardous gases.

• Be careful near roads - never run out from behind parked vans or lorries as you could be knocked down and injured.

• Keep clear of work equipment - You may see diggers, lorries, pipes and other equipment, but don’t be tempted - steer clear and don’t touch!

• Obey 'Danger' signs - reservoirs and treatment works can be very dangerous places, so stay well away and always obey the warning signs.