Recent figures from the National Water Safety Forum show that there were 47 accidental drownings in Scotland and 236 throughout the UK in 2023. The UK Royal Life Saving Society have also highlighted that 49% of accidental drownings take place between May and August.
These sobering statistics have been highlighted ahead of the beginning of the school summer holidays.
The Stirling area is home to some of the most beautiful watercourses in Scotland, but they contain hidden hazards beneath the surface which can be fatal to even experienced swimmers.
Residents and visitors are advised to follow the Water Safety Code before heading out either into or near to a watercourse. Advice includes:
- Check for safety signage
- Avoid alcohol and drugs
- Be aware of Cold Water Shock
- Ensure you have a safe way out of the water
- The depth of the water can conceal underwater ledges, hidden currents and unseen items.
For more info, head to: watersafetyscotland.org.uk for advice on how to keep safe around water.
Advice on how to stay safe when visiting Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park in line with the Water Safety Code is available on their website at: https://www.lochlomond-trossachs.org/plan-your-visit/respect-park-stay-safe/fun-stay-safe-water/
The RNLI’s ‘Float to Live’ educational campaign on how to act in a life threatening emergency in open water is available at: https://rnli.org/safety/float
Additional information on water safety, including the Water Safety Code is available on the Scottish Water website.
Dedicated information from Scottish Fire and Rescue on keeping yourself, pets and friends safe around water is available via the SFRS website.