Dangerous Quarry Lakes and Reasons
Swimmers flocked to a remote quarry lake despite warnings the water is toxic. Derbyshire Police regularly dye the water black to deter visitors. The Blue Lagoon is not a swimming pool, charming as it may be.
Quarries are extremely dangerous places to swim due to steep drop-offs, deep water, sharp rocks, flooded equipment, submerged wire, and industrial waste. The very cold water can be fatal, even for a young healthy person.
Characteristics of Quarry Water
Quarry water often has a low pH which flocculates and settles clays and other particulate matter, giving a greenish color. Presence of micro-organisms also turns water greenish. So clear aqua water generally has low microbe and clay contents.
Environmental Impact of Quarries
Quarrying creates noise and dust pollution. Heavy traffic causes pollution and congestion on narrow roads. Vibrations from heavy traffic can damage buildings. Quarries create visual pollution and may deter tourists.
Toxicity and Dangers of Quarry Water
One rock quarry in England called the Blue Lagoon was full of trash and had a pH value similar to bleach. Officials posted warning signs about the water’s toxicity, but that didn’t deter swimmers.
Why Quarry Water is Hazardous
Quarry water is much colder than rivers, lakes, and the sea since it originates from deep aquifers. If you can’t stand up in a lake or quarry, there will be no way to recover from the shock of the temperature – and you increase your risk of drowning.
Chemistry and Lethality of Blue Lagoon Water
The Blue Lagoon has a very high pH and a vivid blue color due to the leaching of caustic chemicals and calcium carbonate particles. Swimmers risk death from ‘Cold Shock’ in less than 2 minutes.
Impact of Quarrying
Quarries are bad for the environment as they interrupt open spaces, damage habitats, cause pollution, erosion, and deteriorate water quality. However, quarrying is necessary for resources.
Conclusion
Quarries are very dangerous for swimming due to deep, cold water, sharp rocks, and industrial waste. The Blue Lagoon in the UK, despite its charm, contains toxic water and is not safe for swimming.