Cops warn against swimming in 'extremely dangerous' quarry as Scots take dip in water

The quarry is said to be tainted with chemicals, dead animals and debris.

Police have sent a strong warning to people in Dumfries and Galloway after swimmers jumped into an “extremely dangerous” quarry.

Cops in the Newton Stewart area have warned of the dangers of cold water shock after several people swam in a disused quarry during the scorching weather.

Among the risks in the quarry are unknown chemicals, dead animals and debris.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “ Police officers in the Newton Stewart area today attended an incident involving several persons swimming in a disused quarry.

“Police are keen to stress that quarries are extremely dangerous and should be avoided.

“Water in quarries will be a lot colder than you may expect and could lead to cold water shock, which is when sudden immersion makes you gasp and breathe in water, and this can easily lead to drowning.

“This can affect even the most experienced swimmers.

“There are also risks from submerged machinery and debris, falling boulders, possible chemicals, rubbish and dead animals.

“Please do not put your own life, or the lives of rescuers, in danger by entering quarries.”