The most recent figures from the National Water Safety Forum show a total of 33 accidental drownings in Scotland and 193 across the UK in 2024. While this is a reduction on the previous year, it still serves as a stark reminder of the risks of open water ahead of the school summer holidays.
Stirling is home to some of the most scenic watercourses in the country which attract visitors from all across Scotland, but they contain hidden dangers beneath the surface which can be life threatening 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.
Be aware of hidden dangers
Convener of Stirling Council’s Environment, Transport and Net Zero Committee, Cllr Jen Preston said: “As we’re now approaching the height of summer and peak tourism season it’s as important as ever to keep safe around bodies of water.
“It may be tempting to cool off in a river, loch or reservoir on a hot day, however being aware of the hidden dangers are literally a matter of life or death, no matter how experienced a swimmer you may be. Please ensure that if you do go out that you adhere to the Water Safety Code and take appropriate protective measures when visiting Stirling’s watercourses.”
'Follow the Water Safety Code'
Kenny Auld, Head of Visitor Services at Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority, said: “Every year, lives are lost in open water tragedies that could have been prevented. Even on the warmest days, rivers and lochs in the National Park remain cold enough to trigger Cold Water Shock, and hidden hazards and unexpected depths can catch out even strong swimmers. That’s why planning ahead is so important.
“Follow the Water Safety Code and ensure you have the correct Personal Protective Equipment - wetsuit, lifejacket or buoyancy aid and all equipment is checked before you arrive, avoiding alcohol and never go into the water alone.
“Our recently reinforced Loch Lomond Byelaws, including mandatory lifejackets for under-16s on all moving vessels, new slow-speed zones, and the requirement to register if you are in charge of a powered vessel, are in place to help keep people safe and protect this special environment. Alongside our Rangers, who are out on the loch and on land every day offering advice and support, these measures are there to help prevent accidents before they happen.
“We want everyone to respect the water and enjoy the National Park this summer, but do it safely: respect the byelaws, follow the simple, life saving advice, and look out for one another.”
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. Further resources are also available via Water Safety Scotland.
Dedicated information from Scottish Fire and Rescue on keeping yourself, pets and friends safe around water is available via the SFRS website.
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/