POLICE have urged people to stay safe around open water following two tragic deaths in North Yorkshire one week.

Last Thursday a 55-year-old man was rescued by the RNLI after getting into difficulty in the sea at Reighton, near Scarborough, but he was sadly later pronounced dead.

Later that same day, at around 7.45pm, a teenager died after getting into difficulty in the River Wharfe at Grassington.

The 19-year-old was treated by paramedics, but he also sadly died.

A police spokesman said that officers' thoughts were with both families, adding: "If you see someone in difficulty, shout for help and dial 999 and ask for the fire service at inland water sites or the Coastguard if you’re at the beach.

"Although many people’s natural instinct will be to try and save someone in difficulty, resist the urge to jump in - as soon as you enter the water, you will be putting your life in danger too.

"Try to reach the person with a long stick, a scarf, clothes or anything else and crouch or lie down to avoid being pulled in.

"Throw a rope if you have one to try and pull the person back to shore.

"Otherwise throw something that will float such as a ball, a plastic bottle or a lifebuoy."

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