A SPATE of serious incidents at popular swimming spots has prompted police to warn of the dangers of jumping into open water in the hot weather.

Yesterday, emergency services were called to Thomason Foss near Goathland after a 22-year-old man from Yarm suffered serious injuries when he jumped into the water.

He was taken to hospital by air ambulance.

North Yorkshire Police are now working with the North York Moors National Park Authority to warn against the dangers at this location following other recent incidents.

Meanwhile over on the coastline in the Whitby, Scarborough and Filey areas, there is an emerging issue of young people jumping into the sea from harbour walls and piers – often referred to as “tombstoning”.

A multi-agency approach to tackle this problem has been established, with Scarborough Borough Council’s Beach Superintendents tasked with monitoring and engaging with those who appear to be taking part in this highly dangerous activity.

Police officers and Coastguards will be on hand to intervene and take action if required.

Chief Inspector Rachel Wood, Operations Commander for Scarborough and Ryedale, said: “Tombstoning is an extremely dangerous thing to do and has cost people their lives in the past.

“Sadly, such tragedies will happen again in the future if people – often having been drinking alcohol - continue to take such unnecessary risks at our coastal and countryside areas.

“Our partnership approach to this issue is designed to keep people safe from harm and to do everything we can to prevent serious and even fatal incidents occurring.

“For this to be successful we need the co-operation of the public to be sensible in the first place, and for people to report any concerning behaviour to the police as soon as possible.”

Even during warm weather, temperatures in open waters are dangerously low. This can affect even strong swimmers, causing loss of strength and muscle coordination.