Warnings sounded as people gather at Buxton’s dangerous Blue Lagoon nearly every day

Police have been receiving reports nearly every day of people spending time at the disused quarry pool at Harpur Hill.

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Tests reveal the water there has a pH level of 11.3. Bleach has a pH level of around 12.

Paul Hawker, group manager with Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “By swimming there or even playing in or close to the water, you are putting your own life – and that of the emergency services that would be called to help you – into danger.

“Please act responsibly – stay away from the area and keep out of the water.”

He added: “To deter people from entering the water, local agencies work together to dye the usual blue waters black – but due to the deposits that seep from the stone, the water soon returns to its blue colour.

“Not only is the PH value of the quarry water similar to bleach, meaning you are highly likely to experience skin irritation from swimming in the water, but there are many hidden dangers that can quickly lead to even the strongest swimmer getting caught and into difficulty – old cars and animal carcasses are just some of the things lurking in the depths of the water.

“And no matter how hot the weather is, the quarry water will remain cold, meaning if you enter it, your body can quickly go into shock causing your heart rate to quicken, you start to gasp for breath and you can quickly become confused and disorientated.”

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