Scottish Water urges people to stay safe around reservoirs, rivers and lochs in run-up to National Drowning Prevention Week
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The dangers of open water are being outlined in a series of campaigns as experts fear closed schools and easing lockdown restrictions could lead to a spike in drownings.
Last year, 37 people died in Scotland through unintentional drowning, while figures from the National Water Safety Forum show that number was 214 across the UK.
Scottish Water is among those asking the public to stay safe and behave responsibly around its reservoirs, as well as rivers and lochs, this summer.
Peter Farrer, Scottish Water’s chief operating officer, said: “While everyone should enjoy any further good weather we have and take pleasure around the country’s beautiful lochs, rivers and reservoirs while following the Scottish Government’s Covid-19 guidelines, it’s absolutely vital that they stay safe at all times and behave responsibly.
“Safety is a serious issue as, while the water may look harmless, there are many hidden dangers. We need to ensure everyone is aware of these hazards. We are reminding parents to keep their children safe and asking adults to act responsibly around watercourses.”
Scottish Water warns that working parts and cold, deep water make reservoirs a particularly dangerous place, with many of them situated in remote locations with limited mobile phone coverage. It says it does not encourage swimming in its reservoirs.
The utility also advises pet owners not to jump in after pets, adding that dogs should be kept on a lead if they are being walked near reservoirs and other areas of water.
The Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK), the UK’s drowning prevention charity, is backing the safety call and is running its National Drowning Prevention Week from June 12-19.
Lee Heard, charity director for RLSS UK, said: “Public safety this summer is certainly a concern for us. The euphoria of lifted lockdown restrictions, the recent warm weather and a stretch on rescue and emergency services all equates to a potential spike in tragic loss through drowning. It is on us all to do the right thing to protect ourselves and our emergency services.
“Our message this year is for individuals to take responsibility for their own safety around the water, apply common sense, be your family and friend’s lifeguard, and learn what to do in an emergency.”
Also supporting Scottish Water’s call, Carlene McAvoy, Scotland community safety development manager at the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), said: “In preparation for being able to carry out exercise or any activity in or around water, now is the time to plan ahead and consider the possible dangers.
“Even in warmer weather, children and adults alike should be aware of the dangers of cold water shock and how it can still lead to drowning in the summer months.”
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) also urged people to stay out of the water and stay safe.
Deputy assistant chief officer Alasdair Perry said: “The water might look inviting, especially on a hot day, but the reality is very different. Open water can be a cold and hostile environment even in summer because of the climate in Scotland.
“Firefighters within our water rescue units around the country are highly trained individuals who can assist persons in difficulty. It takes dedication and hard work to carry out these types of rescues, but even for our teams the water can be a dangerous place.
“So to prevent tragedies happening the best advice we can give to the public is to stay out of the water.”
