Young men most likely to drown despite drop in water-related deaths
The Drowning and Incident Review (DIR) dashboard also provides more specific and in-depth live data, which is updated monthly.
According to the published WAID figures, of the 33 accidental deaths, over half (55 per cent) occurred in coastal waters - a shift from the historical trend of inland waterway incidents. Recreational activities were involved in 46% of these fatalities, and April emerged as the deadliest month.
READ MORE:
Encouragingly, overall drownings and accidental drownings are at their lowest levels in Scotland, the accidental fatality rate dropped to 0.60 per 100,000 people, continuing a downward trend.
Carlene McAvoy, Founder of Water Safety Scotland and RoSPA's Senior Policy Manager, said: 'This year's figures show real progress; water-related fatalities in Scotland are at their lowest levels. However, this is not a time for complacency, as every water-related fatality is a tragedy. Last year's data show that young men were the most affected, with coastal waters currently the most common location for deaths, so we must continue to focus our efforts to address these concerns with targeted safety messages and interventions.
"Fortunately, the introduction of the Drowning and Incident Review (DIR) in May 2023 has helped to improve the quality and clarity of fatality data, reducing the number of 'not recorded' outcomes and has provided deeper insights into incident causes, which we will continue to use to help identify risk factors now and in the future.'
Community Safety Minister Siobhain Brown said: 'My thoughts and sympathies are with the families and friends who have lost a loved one in a drowning accident.
"I encourage everyone to protect themselves and others when in and around the water and to be aware that water temperature can vary drastically, as can currents and tides. It's well worth learning the Water Safety Code and using the resources of Water Safety Scotland so people can stay safe and prevent accidents in our waters.'
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The National
a day ago
- The National
Scotland weather: Safety advice issued for dangerous Storm Floris
A yellow warning for wind has been issued for northern parts of the country from 6am on Monday to 6am on Tuesday. The latest named storm of 2025 will bring 'unusually windy weather' for this time of year and heavy rainfall is also forecast, the Met Office said. Many inland parts of the warning area will see westerly gusts of 40-50mph and exposed coasts and high ground could see them reach 70mph. There is a chance that winds could reach 85mph on Scottish coastlines and hills. READ MORE: Plans submitted for new £20 million five-star hotel in St Andrews The strongest winds will most likely affect Scotland on Monday afternoon and night but 'there remains some uncertainty in the depth and track of Floris', the Met Office said. It added: 'Winds will first ease in the west during later Monday but remaining very strong overnight until early Tuesday in the east. 'Heavy rain may also contribute to the disruption in places.' The warning zone covers Scotland, parts of Northern Ireland, north Wales and the north of England. How to stay safe amid Storm Floris Now, safety advice has been issued by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA). Adrian Simpson, Head of Policy at RoSPA, said: 'We understand how tempting it can be to stick with summer plans — whether it's a coastal walk, a camping trip, or a garden gathering — but Storm Floris presents real risks. "With strong winds and heavy rain forecast, we're urging everyone to take the yellow warning seriously. Simple steps like securing outdoor items, avoiding unnecessary travel, and checking on vulnerable neighbours can make a big difference in staying safe.' Here are some important safety tips to help you stay safe: Secure loose objects: Ensure that any loose items outside your home, such as garden furniture, are secured or brought indoors to prevent them from being blown away. Avoid travel: If possible, avoid traveling during the peak of the storm. If you must travel, check the weather forecast and road conditions before setting off. Stay indoors: Stay inside during the storm, especially during the yellow warning period from 06:00 Monday to 06:00 Tuesday. Prepare for power cuts: Have an emergency kit ready with essentials such as torches, batteries, and non-perishable food in case of power outages. Stay away from windows: Keep away from windows and glass doors to avoid injury from flying debris. Charge your devices: Ensure your mobile phone and other essential devices are fully charged. Check on vulnerable neighbours: If it is safe to do so, ensure that they are secure and have everything they need. For more detailed advice on staying safe during strong winds, you can visit the Met Office's stay safe in storms page and the RoSPA website.
Daily Record
23-07-2025
- Daily Record
Take the high road from West Lothian and try paddleboarding and canoeing at Loch Lomond
Water Safety Scotland is hosting the fourth World Drowning Prevention Day event Residents from across West Lothian are being encouraged to pack their swimwear and take the high road to Loch Lomond to enjoy a host of free water activities and demonstrations this Friday. Water Safety Scotland is hosting the fourth World Drowning Prevention Day event at Loch Lomond Shores, Balloch on July 25. The annual water safety event is supported by Scottish Water, RoSPA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents), Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, The Darcey Sunshine Foundation, Police Scotland, West Dunbartonshire Council, Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park, and SSE Renewables. The free, fun-filled, family friendly day is open to all and aims to raise awareness of water safety and drowning prevention across Scotland with a broad range of interactive and educational activities, including swimming safely outdoors. The fourth annual event comes as new figures show there were 33 accidental drownings in Scotland in 2024, with Water Safety Scotland warning that continued vigilance is essential. Attendees will have the opportunity to: Learn life-saving tips through the Water Safety Code Watch live rescue demonstrations by SFRS and the Scottish Newfoundland Club rescue dogs Try out paddleboarding and canoeing taster sessions with Paddle Scotland and CAG Adventures Visit a range of interactive safety and information stands Carlene McAvoy, Founder of Water Safety Scotland, said: 'Every life lost to drowning is one too many. Events like World Drowning Prevention Day are vital in spreading awareness and equipping people with the knowledge they need to stay safe around water. Our focus remains on promoting the Water Safety Code in a fun, engaging, and educational way.' Scotland's Community Safety Minister, Siobhian Brown MSP, said: 'With the warmer summer weather I understand the appeal of our seas, lochs and rivers which is why water safety is vital and events like Water Safety Scotland's Water Safety Open Day are an important way of raising awareness of the dangers of our waterways, how to enjoy them safely and what to do in an emergency. 'Our Water Safety Action Plan includes a range of key steps agreed with partners, to further mitigate risks including better signage, lesson plans for pupils and improved training. I encourage everyone to know and follow the Water Safety Code: Stop and Think, Spot the Dangers, Stay Together, Stay Close and call 999 in an emergency. 'My thoughts are also with the families and friends of those affected by the recent water-related tragedies.' Peter Farrer, Chief Operating Officer at Scottish Water, added: 'We cannot over-emphasise the importance of water safety all year round, but it's particularly relevant during the summer months when people are often more likely to be around water. 'We're delighted to be involved in this event again this year, it provides a valuable opportunity for us to have water-safety conversations with people to build the vital knowledge and skills to help people stay safer in, on and around water.' 'With Scotland's abundance of coastlines, lochs, rivers and reservoirs, it's absolutely vital that everyone has the opportunity to learn basic water safety skills.' The event will run from 11am to 4pm and is open to all ages with families, school kids and community groups especially encouraged to attend.
Daily Record
17-07-2025
- Daily Record
How to keep your children safe around water this summer as drownings increase
Drownings typically increase between May and August, so it's especially important to be wary of water in summer. Scots have enjoyed their fair share of piping weather already this summer. With these scorching days comes the chance to head to the beach, get out the paddling pool, or even go wild swimming in one of our stunning lochs. But activities involving water can pose several hazards, especially to kids. In fact, cases of drowning increase significantly during hotter seasons, when families go to refresh by taking part in water-based activities. So it's crucial to be aware of the hazards water can pose to young kids and teens. Jo Talbot, commercial director at Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK), has offered her advice on keeping youngsters safe. With this in mind, the expert has shared some safety tips for parents of under fives, over fives, and teens, so that wherever you go with the kids this summer, you can enjoy water activities without the worry. Water safety tips for parents of under fives Supervise 'Always watch children near water and keep them within arm's reach,' advises Talbot. 'When your children are in the water, supervise them at all times, enjoy the water with them.' Carlene McAvoy, senior policy manager for water safety at The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) adds: 'Hold your child's hand when near any waterways inland or at the coast.' Secure a pram If a pram's brake doesn't work, it can lead to the pram rolling away, potentially causing injury to the child and others. 'Always secure the brake on a pushchair or pram when near waterways,' advises McAvoy. Lock and cover pools or jacuzzis 'If you have a hot or cold tub, make sure it's locked and covered so that young children cannot access it,' recommends McAvoy. 'Paddling pools should always be emptied and stored away somewhere safe when not in use.' Fence off garden ponds 'Be aware of visiting places or friends with garden ponds,' says McAvoy. 'Always keep an eye on your young ones. If you have a pond, we recommend filling it in or securely fencing it off.' Water safety tips for parents of over fives Go to supervised swimming sites 'If you decide to go swimming with your children, it's best to use a properly supervised site with lifeguards such as a life-guarded beach, lido or swimming pool,' recommends McAvoy. Choose bright coloured swimwear 'Dress your child in brightly coloured swimwear so they can be seen,' suggests Talbot. Look at tide times 'Don't get cut off by tides,' stresses McAvoy. 'If you're heading to the beach or a tidal lake or river, take some time to plan your day around the tides. "Go to the Met Office to enter your location and find out what time high and low tide will be.' Teach them about the Water Safety Code The Water Safety Code is a set of simple, easy-to-remember guidelines which encourages people to Stop and Think, Stay Together, Call 999 and Float. 'Teach children and young people to call 999 in an emergency and to tell the call operator that you have a water-based emergency at the coast or inland,' advises McAvoy. Water safety tips for parents of teens Educate them on water safety hazards 'We encourage parents of teenagers to discuss water safety and the dangers of inland water, such as rivers, lakes and quarries,' says Talbot. 'Being able to swim can sometimes not be enough to keep them safe. 'Hazards under the water can cause entrapment, currents can pull a person underwater; and even when the air temperature is high the water can be cold which will affect a person's ability to swim, causing them to drown.' Tell them about the risks of alcohol near water Drinking alcohol, especially excessively, poses several risks when combined with water or when near bodies of water. Explain how alcohol can impair your judgement and increase the chances of an accident, advises McAvoy. Warn them about the dangers of jumping into the unknown 'You can't always see what's under the water and if you crash into a rock or other submerged items you're at risk of serious impact injuries,' warns McAvoy. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community!
