A major search operation is underway after reports of a 19-year-old male seen struggling and in dificulties whilst in the water in the Erie Basin at Salford Quays.
The forces helicopter was dispatched to the scene to aid in the search from the air.
Specialist crews used an inflatable dingy to search the water, whilst a police cordon was put into place in the area.
A diving team were seen to be conducting an underwater search and a tent has now been erected within the inner cordon.
Despite an active police search taking place, youngsters continued to take to the water at the other end of the basin as well as the adjoining canals on what is one of the hottest days of the year so far.
Salford City Council has repeatedly warned of the dangers of unsupervised swimming in the area due to the strong currents and hidden risks beneath the surface. There are signs dotted around the Quays warning of the dangers and yet they are continually ignored.
A number of safety devices have been placed around the waters due to previous incidents and for the safety of the public.
Wild swimming unsupervised like this is highly dangerous.
Colin and his wife Trish, who were visiting the area from Sale told us:
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"There have been people swimming in the basin for most of the day, at one point we witnessed kids jumping from the bridge.
"On days like this the bridge should be closed off to the public as the risks are just to high and it is clearly a mecca for the daredevils and those seeking to dice with danger.
"We have a similar problem at the lake in Sale, on hot days you have kids using the metrolink to get to it so they can swim in the water."
A spokesperson for GMP said:
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"At about 4.40pm on Sunday 18 July, officers were called over concerns for a man in the water at Salford Quays.
"North West Ambulance Service and Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service are also in attendance and the scene is ongoing."
A spokesperson for GMFRS said:
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"At 4.35pm we received the first of several 999 calls in relation to a person needing to be rescued from water in Salford Quays.
"We have been searching the water for more than 30 minutes using fire service boats, divers and under water cameras - but we have not yet found the person.
"We continue to search the water supported by colleagues from Greater Manchester Poliec and North West Ambulance Service."
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