A campaign continuing to spread the message to ‘Respect The Water’ in Tenby has seen a number of posters placed around the seaside town highlighting hidden dangers.

The organisation ‘Tenby Water Safety’ has overseen a project (supported by Pembrokeshire County Council, Mid and West Wales Fire Service, Dyfed-Powys Police and the RNLI) to spread the message of enjoying the sea safely this summer; whilst pointing out the dangers of swimming and jumping in the harbour area.

Roger Smith, RNLI area lifesaving manager and chair of the Pembrokeshire Water Safety Forum, said: “Whether it’s on the coast, or inland, we want people to be aware of the risks of jumping into water from height - known as ‘tombstoning’.

“The water is often shallower than it looks. Submerged items may not be visible and can cause serious life-changing injuries if you hit them.

“The water can be a lot colder than it looks, so the shock of cold water may also make it difficult to swim, and in the sea and rivers currents can sweep you away.

“It’s really important that people think about the possible dangers. We want people to be in a position to make better, more informed choices to keep themselves and others safe.

“The RNLI does not recommend ‘’tombstoning’. You should never allow others to pressure you into jumping.

“If you wish to jump into the water, first check for hazards such as rocks - especially hazards hidden below the surface. Water depths can change rapidly with the tide and waves: just because you saw somebody else jump in earlier doesn’t mean it is safe to do so now.”