We’ve heard from lots of people that quarries are “really dangerous places to swim!”. We don’t really agree. We think the danger comes from the people using them...

Quarries are typically bodies of water that are sheltered from the wind, they don’t experience currents, tides, waves, there’s minimal chop, no water craft… so in theory, they’re one of the safest places to swim. However, you’ll still need to consider the following and take a number of pre-cautions.

WATER QUALITY :

Always consider the water quality. Venues and private businesses will typically test the water regularly, so this shouldn’t be too much of a consideration, in this scenario. Quarries that you’d find on moorland, off-the-beaten-track etc, not so much. Popular use by swimmers is no guarantee of safe water quality! Water quality can also change, especially if the quarry is near farmland or a public road…where someone could easily dump waste into the water.

ENTRY AND EXIT :

Essential to check out entry and exit points. Imagine getting in and not being able to get out again, due to steep walls! Slowly enter the water, as you don’t know the temperature and you may not be aware of what’s under the surface.

TEMPERATURE :

Quarries tend to get warmer than the sea in the summer and colder than the sea in the winter. This is also fairly true when comparing them to rivers. Temperature will also depend on the size and depth of the quarry and its water mass. Both could cause problem, with really cold temperature in the winter and warmer water issues like algae potentially being an issue.

SUBMERGED OBJECTS :

Quarries could have old minings equipment in them, dumped rubbish/vehicles/old fridge-freezer… as well as large rocks and objects just under the surface. Always do your research.

VISIBILITY :

Always take someone with you. Never a good idea swimming in a remote quarry by yourself. If something were to happen, there may well be little to no chance of a passerby assisting you. Something as minor as a twisted ankle could cause major problem in remote areas, if you’re alone.

PRIVATE PROPERTY :

Many quarries are owned by private companies or individuals, that are keen to discourage swimming in unsupervised waters. This may increase the chances of prosecution for trespassing.

JUMPING :

Lots of quarries also have sides of varying heights, making it very tempting to jump in. Again, variable depths and cold temperatures can lead to safety issues. An awkward landing can also be more problematic, if you’re in a remote/quiet area, especially if there’s limited mobile phone reception.

SUMMARY :

Make sure you do your research. It’s almost impossible to find new bodies of water, that are un-swum by humans. So get find out as much as you can before visiting a new quarry, water quality, access (entry and exit points), hazards, bear in mind that the water level itself can vary…which can lead to additional issues. Just make sure you’re extremely cautious and observant, if it’s your first time in a particular quarry.