CHILDREN and teenagers should take heed of the dangers of swimming in rivers, reservoirs and the canal, say British Waterways staff.

Richard Dommett, manager of the Monmouthshire/Brecon canal said youngsters who cooled off in canals did not realise they were putting themselves at risk.

He told the Argus: "On a hot summer day the idea of jumping in the canal may seem appealing but it is a dangerous thing to do.

"Canals were built to be used by boat traffic, not swimmers. The best way to enjoy your local canal is to take part in organised activities, such as taking a boat trip, cycling, canoeing or walking along the towpath."

British Waterways is committed to educating families and schools about safety by the canals and issues a variety of material including a booklet and video aimed at young children which features the television puppets Rosie and Jim.

British Waterways staff spent the last few weeks of term visiting schools to inform and educate more than 3,000 youngsters about the waterway environment.

The organisation runs the Dragonfly project, sponsored by Tarmac which runs its own boat named Roman and teaches water safety to children aged seven-11 years.

The children were told about the dangers of jumping into the canal which is often quite shallow, and objects found below the surface also pose further dangers.

Mr Dommett added: "Severe stomach illness can result from swallowing canal, river or reservoir water, which, unlike swimming pool water, contains naturally occurring micro-organisms.

"We want parents to take particular care to warn their children and friends of the hazards of swimming in inland waters."

There are always children's activities at Goytre Wharf, where there is a new cafe offering the best in Welsh produce so families can enjoy a day out, with an outdoor play area for the children and a woodland walk.