MWRA: Don't Swim in the Fells

It's sweltering today, but don't think about cooling off by taking a dip in the Fells—that's prohibited.

The MWRA (Massachusetts Water Resources Authority) is reminding residents this week that swimming is prohibited at the High Fells Reservoir in Stoneham, which is maintained by the MWRA and used as an emergency water supply.

High Fells Reservoir has "many rock outcroppings," the MWRA said in a press release issued this week, and swimmers who become tired or injure themselves on thse rocks are far away from emergency medical help.

"The facility is not staffed and there are no lifeguards on duty," the MWRA said in the release. "There have been fatalities at this site in the past and more recently at nearby Spot Pond."

The MWRA's covered storage tank, which came online in 1998, provides the drinking water for Melrose, Saugus, Stoneham and Wakefield. However, the High Fells Reservoir still serves as an emergency water supply and swimmers and dogs in the water pose a threat to water quality, the MWRA said.

"Illegal swimming has resulted in vandalism, damage to fencing, trash left at the reservoir and fires," the MWRA said in the release. "The MWRA has asked the Massachusetts State Police to increase their patrols of this critical facility during the summer. The MWRA also needs the help of local residents to ensure public safety and protect public health."

Residents can call the MWRA’s 24-hour Security Hotline at (877) 697-6972 to report swimming or any other harmful behavior.