Summer safety warning of open water dangers across Stirling
Stirling Council and its public safety partners are urging people to stay safe around open water this summer as Drowning Prevention Week (DPW) launches across the UK and Ireland.
Article Source: Stirling Council
Last Updated: 18 June 2022 12:17
While Stirling is home to some of Scotland’s most stunning lochs, rivers and reservoirs, they hold many hidden dangers that can prove fatal.
In Scotland, the number of drownings is on the rise. A report from the National Water Safety Forum shows there were 105 water-related fatalities in 2021, compared to 99 in 2020 and 96 in 2019.
Many of these tragedies are due to everyday occurrences such as a trip or fall, or underestimating the effect of swimming in cold open water that can cause ‘cold water shock’.
According to the Royal Life Saving Society UK, around 44% of drownings in the UK happen between May and August.
To make young people aware of the dangers, and ensure families enjoy water safely over the summer months, Stirling Council schools will be sharing additional learning materials with pupils during DPW.
Water safety and survival swimming are also key elements of Stirling Council’s Primary School Swimming Programme. Delivered by experienced swim teachers, the information and lifesaving skills are continually researched and updated.
The school swimming certification has also been recently updated with four increasingly challenging levels, with each certificate including water safety reminders such as ‘Float to Live’.
Convener of Stirling Council’s Environment and Housing Committee, Cllr Jen Preston said: “Sadly, this is the time of year when we hear so many tragic stories of people drowning, including children, causing heartache for families and friends.
“During the summer holidays when more families will be visiting inland water areas across Stirling, it’s vital we all raise awareness of the hidden dangers.
“There is fantastic educational work taking place in our schools about how pupils can be safe around open water and what to do should the worst happen, but I would encourage parents and carers to reinforce this message at home to minimise the risks.”
To stay safe in and around Stirling’s open waters, follow the Water Safety Code developed by Water Safety Scotland.
Area Commander Mark Bryce is the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s Local Senior Office for Stirling, Clackmannanshire and Fife. Commander Bryce said: “We want people to have an enjoyable time during the warmer months, but safety is our top priority, and it is extremely important that we remind the public about staying safe near water.
“We must educate the public about the very real dangers of our coastal and inland waters and the risks involved in swimming or playing in water.
“Anyone, of any skill and experience level can find themselves in difficulty and we would encourage everyone to educate themselves and those around them to stay safe in and around water.”
Kenny Auld, Head of Visitor Services at Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority, said: “Being close to or going into the water is very appealing during these warmer summer months, whether that’s just a picnic with friends on the loch shores, a dip to cool down or enjoying activities like swimming or paddle boarding.
“It is important though to understand the risks and to know how to enjoy the water safely. Even when it’s hot, the water in lochs is very cold and can cause cold water shock, even in experienced swimmers. Going into a loch is very different to going into the sea, where the water gradually gets deeper. Lochs often get deep very quickly with sudden, steep drops close to the shore.
“We have rolled out a programme of enhanced water safety measures ahead of this summer and continue to work closely with partners such as local authorities and emergency services to get the messages out there on how to keep yourself safe in or around our waters.”
Drowning Prevention Week (DPW) which runs from 18 to 25 June is one of the largest summer water safety campaign across the UK and Ireland.
The campaign is organised by the Royal Life Saving Society UK and is designed to raise awareness of water safety ahead of a summer outdoors.
Sponsored Links
Latest Stirling News
Innis & Gunn Joins Forces with Stirling Highland Games in a 3 Year Cultural Celebration
The Stirling Highland Games has proudly announced a new three-year partnership with one of Scotland’s most iconic brewing brands, Innis & Gunn.
READ MORE
Great value summer holiday activities at Dobbies Garden Centres
This summer, gather the whole family and head to Dobbies Garden Centres for a day of fun-filled activities that will keep costs down.
READ MORE
FREE family festival at Loch Lomond Shores returns on 5th and 6th July
Summerfest, the FREE family festival at Loch Lomond Shores, is back on the 5th and 6th of July with lots of things to see and do!
READ MORE
Earlybird tickets drive buzz for 2026 Scottish Caravan, Motorhome & Holiday Home Show
The biggest show of its kind in Scotland returns with Earlybird tickets and a give-away with headline sponsor Border Caravans!
READ MORE
July events at Dobbies Garden Centres
Check out July at Dobbies with it's Little Seedlings Club on rainforests and Grow How on pest control and healthy gardens!
READ MORE
Historic Environment Scotland calls for public stories for national wellbeing exhibition
Historic Environment Scotland is calling for people across the country to connect with heritage to boost their wellbeing as a part of a national campaign, Historic Places, Breathing Spaces.
READ MORE
Scottish Bar and Pub Awards 2025 adds two new categories and voting deadline extended!
Scotland's hospitality industry and customers have spoken, and the Scottish Bar and Pub Awards 2025 has listened!
READ MORE
25th year of Refugee Festival Scotland gets underway
Refugee Festival Scotland gets underway today, kick-starting nine days of dance performances, film screenings, visual art and photography exhibitions and community events across the country.
READ MORE
Exclusive Superman screening at Vue venues in Scotland
Tickets are on sale for an exclusive Superman screening at Vue venues in Scotland, with fans in for an extra special treat to take home.
READ MORE
Acclaimed debut Only Here, Only Now from Tom Newlands chosen as Waterstones Book of the Month in Scotland
The paperback edition of Only Here, Only Now by Tom Newlands has just been released - and is already making waves.
READ MORE
Feedback sought on new Walk, Cycle, Live Stirling project
To mark Bike Week UK, people across Stirling are being encouraged to take part in a new survey that will help shape active travel in the area and support the shift to sustainable modes of transport.
READ MORE
Stirling BID team brighten up City Centre with Blooming Planters
Pollinator-friendly plants, funded and organised by Go Forth Stirling BID have added a welcome splash of colour across Stirling city centre.
READ MORE
Funding Boost for Charities at Scottish Building Society AGM
Scottish Building Society marked its Annual General Meeting (AGM) by announcing funding to support eight local charities and good causes across the country.
READ MORE
Classic car enthusiasts set to visit Loch Lomond Shores
Visitors are invited to come along and get up-close to some amazing cars, set against the beautiful backdrop of Loch Lomond, as part of a great day out.
READ MORE
Paws, play and heritage on parade
Bark by popular demand, the Gordon Setter Parade returns on Saturday 5th July as part of the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) Scottish Game Fair, held at the stunning Scone Palace.
READ MORE
Dobbies hosts brand new Fairy Garden Tea Party
Dobbies Garden Centres are inviting families across the UK along to its stores on Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th of June to spend a magical afternoon filled with fun activities and good food.
READ MORE
Stirling celebrates its rich history at the Walking of the Marches
Stirling’s rich history and heritage was celebrated at its annual Walking of the Marches, which dates back to at least the 12th century, on Saturday (31 May).
READ MORE
Have your say on plans for a sustainable transport system in Stirling
People will have the opportunity to shape a future transport system for Stirling that is fair, clean and affordable with the launch of a new consultation.
READ MORE
How to train your Dad in 4DX Cineworld enlists Gerard Butler
Cineworld is launching a brand new 4DX Father's Day gift experience, containing two 4DX tickets and ponchos, perfect for experiencing the new live-action "How to Train Your Dragon" film.
READ MORE
Summer of Roses: Free gardening workshop at Dobbies
Dobbies Garden Centres is hosting a free Rose-themed Grow How workshop this June, sharing top tips for caring for this beloved flowering plant.
READ MORE
William Wallace Running Festival seeks Teams of Bravehearts
Teams of runners have the chance to race through Scotland’s most historic battlefields and stunning landscapes during an exciting new event - the William Wallace Running Festival.
READ MORE
Cheers to 30 years: Scottish Bar and Pub Awards celebrate with public voting now open
Scotland's longest-running hospitality awards turn 30 - and they want you to have your say!
READ MORE
Loch Lomond Unplugged is coming this weekend!
Loch Lomond Unplugged, our FREE showcase of talented buskers and singer/songwriters, is this weekend and we’re super excited to welcome great acts from across Scotland and beyond!
READ MORE
Restored Memorial to be unveiled in Stirling
Restored memorial to be unveiled in Stirling's old town cemetery to mark the 250th anniversary of the American War of Independence.
READ MORE
Dig into summer fun at Dobbies
Dobbies Garden Centres is inviting children to come along to its free-to-attend Little Seedlings Club, taking place across the country this June.
READ MORE
Aldi to gift year supply of free beer to biggest beer lover in Scotland
Aldi Scotland is on the hunt for the nation's biggest beer lover, as it revamps its popular Best Home Bar Competition by expanding the criteria.
READ MORE
Milestone year for Refugee Festival Scotland
Refugee Festival Scotland has officially unveiled the programme for its highly anticipated 2025 edition, running from 13 – 22 June.
READ MORE
Vue to host marvellous superhero season welcoming classic X Men films back to the big screen for 25th anniversary
Film fans, families and comic book enthusiasts are invited to rediscover the original big screen superhero team as a series of classic X-Men films return to the big screen at Vue this month.
READ MORE
Kids Fly FareFREE on new Loganair routes
Families can take advantage of Loganair's new Kids Fly Fare-FREE offer, allowing children aged 11 and under to travel without paying an airfare.
READ MORE
Find out how foster caring in Stirling could work for you at drop in event
A drop-in event to attract new foster carers is being hosted by Stirling Council at the Raploch Campus on Friday, May 16th.
READ MORESponsored Links
Sponsored Links