A warning has been issued by the London Fire Brigade following the deaths of a 34-year-old mother and her seven-year-old son in the River Brent next to Elthorne Park in Hanwell.
Firefighters were called at 4.33pm on Saturday to reports of two people in the water. Despite the efforts of emergency services, both were pronounced dead at the scene by London Ambulance Service.
Pam Oparaocha, Assistant Commissioner for Prevention and Protection at London Fire Brigade, said: “Our thoughts are with the family and their loved ones following this tragedy and we ask that their privacy is respected at this difficult time.
“Sadly, over 100 people have died in accidental drownings in London over the last five years, so this Be Water Aware Week we want to remind Londoners about the real and immediate dangers of open water.”
She warned that even in hot weather, most inland water in London remains below 16°C, which can cause cold water shock and lead to drowning.
London Fire Brigade advised anyone who sees someone in difficulty not to enter the water, but to call 999 and try to throw them something that floats.
Three fire engines and a Fire Rescue Unit from Chiswick, Acton, Richmond and Wembley fire stations attended.
