Water safety warning as Scotland heats up this weekend
The warning comes as figures from the National Water Safety Forum reveal there were 33 accidental drownings in Scotland in 2024 and 193 across the UK.
To equip people with basic water safety knowledge and skills, Scottish Water is collaborating with Water Safety Scotland to hold a Water Safety Open Day on July 25, in support of World Drowning Prevention Day.
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The annual event will be held at Loch Lomond Shores, Balloch, from 11am to 4pm.
Peter Farrer, chief operating officer at Scottish Water, said: "While people should enjoy any good weather we have and take pleasure at Scotland's beautiful lochs, reservoirs, rivers, and beaches, it's absolutely vital they stay safe at all times and act responsibly.
"As a number of tragic deaths in Scotland in recent years have shown, safety is a serious issue in all bodies of water.
"At reservoirs, 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 everyone to behave responsibly around reservoirs and other watercourses.'
Reservoirs, which are integral to Scottish Water's infrastructure, pose specific hazards including deep, cold water, dams, steep banks, spillways, and underwater pipework.
The remote locations of many reservoirs mean there is often a lack of immediate assistance and poor mobile phone reception.
As such, Scottish Water discourages swimming in these bodies of water.
The company's safety advice extends to pet owners, as attempting to rescue pets in trouble in the water can result in fatalities.
Scottish Water reservoir rangers patrol popular locations including Milngavie, Gladhouse, Kilpatrick Hills, Carron Valley, North Third, and Cocksburn.
The company is also reminding people to stay hydrated, encouraging them to take reusable bottles wherever they venture this weekend.
Their Top Up Tap map shows the location of over 130 taps across the country, including in towns, cities, parks, and at the coast.
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