Scottish Water issues warning over dangers of reservoirs
The warning comes after reports of anti-social and dangerous behaviour at reservoirs, including campfires, vandalism, littering, and diving from water towers.
Peter Farrer, chief operating officer at Scottish Water, said: "While people should enjoy any good weather we have this summer and take pleasure around beautiful lochs, reservoirs, rivers, and beaches, it's absolutely vital they stay safe at all times and behave 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 act responsibly around reservoirs and other watercourses."
Read more: Scottish Water issues plea as country's reservoirs hit by dry weather
Reservoirs pose particular dangers due to deep, cold water, dams, steep banks, spillways, and underwater pipework.
Many of them are in remote locations with limited access to help and poor mobile phone reception.
Scottish Water does not encourage swimming in reservoirs and advises the public to stay out of the water.
The warning comes as part of a wider campaign to promote water safety, supported by the Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK).
Matt Croxall, interim charity director at RLSS UK, said: "In the last five years, only 39 per cent of those who accidentally drowned in Scotland intended to be in the water, highlighting how easy it is to unexpectedly get into trouble.
"With the summer holidays coming and families enjoying staycations across popular destinations in Scotland, it is even more vital that everyone has a strong understanding of what to do if you find yourself or someone else in trouble in the water."
"Bringing water safety to the forefront of everyone's mind, Drowning Prevention Week equips people with the appropriate skills and knowledge to be summer-ready when it comes to being safe in and around water.'
Carlene McAvoy, senior policy manager at the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), said: "Every drowning is a heartbreaking and preventable loss that deeply affects families and communities across Scotland.
"As summer approaches and more people spend time near water, we're encouraging everyone to take a moment to remember the Water Safety Code: Stop and Think, Spot the Dangers; Stay Together, Stay Close; and In an Emergency, Call 999.
"These simple steps can genuinely save lives."
Scottish Water has reservoir rangers patrolling key sites to promote safety and offer guidance to visitors.
Rangers patrol busy reservoirs including Milngavie in East Dunbartonshire, Gladhouse in Midlothian, Kilpatrick Hills in West Dunbartonshire, Carron Valley, North Third, and Cocksburn in Stirlingshire.
Donna Mills, Scottish Water's Land Strategy Team Manager, said: 'Our rangers are out across these key sites speaking directly with visitors about how to enjoy the outdoors safely and responsibly.
"They're sharing tailored advice and highlighting good practice guidance developed by Water Safety Scotland.
'Also, as part of localised PAWS groups (Partnership Approach to Water Safety), we are working closely with Police Scotland, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, and local SW Public General councils to deliver joint patrols, school talks, and attend community events – all aimed at promoting water safety and responsible behaviour.
'All of this complements our social media campaigns and our onsite safety signage which we'd encourage everyone to take a moment to read and follow the guidance when visiting.'
The company also collaborates with Police Scotland, fire services, and local councils to deliver joint patrols, school talks, and community events aimed at improving water safety.
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