CHILDREN are being warned not to cool off in canals, reservoirs and lakes during the summer holidays.

The reminder came from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) and Yorkshire Water as temperatures soared over the last week.

Peter Cornall, the society's head of water and leisure, said: "The combination of hot weather, children and local water sites can often spell drownings.

"We have to get the message through to children that the only safe place to swim in this country is at a properly- supervised swimming pool or a properly-supervised beach.

"It is vital that parents explain the dangers of water to their children.

"Even in the hottest weather, water in this country remains extremely cold and saps people's strength.

"They often over-estimate their swimming capabilities and are unaware of other hazards like hidden currents, rubbish and reeds."