Walkers being urged to stay safe near water
Walkers are being reminded to exercise caution when near water after a man was rescued from Bracklinn Falls near Callander.
The rescue operation, which happened on Wednesday afternoon, comes after two men died in waters in Stirling area beauty spots last week.
The Observer reported last Friday that 21-year-old Stuart McLevy passed away after falling off the back of a jet ski on Loch Lomond on Saturday May 6. And in a separate incident just three days later a 25-year-old man was found dead in water near Inverarnan.
The latest rescue saw emergency services rush to the falls north east of Callander shortly after 1pm on Wednesday after reports of concern for a man near the water.
When crews arrived they found him in difficulty in the gorge but he was quickly brought to safety before receiving medical treatment for what is believed to be a head injury. KMRT leader Bill Rose highlighted the dangers posed to people who are out and about and near water.
He said:“Bracklinn Falls is a very popular area with walkers – especially at this time of year when the weather is getting better.
“However, some parts are quite steep and we have had a few incidents there over the years.
“It’s great that people are getting out and visiting these beauty spots but we would just ask that they are careful. There are a lot of potential dangers with the high rock faces, and you can find yourself in difficulty quickly if you stray from the path.
“It’s also especially important that people visiting these areas keep a close eye on their children and dogs when they are near water or steep cliffs as when the rocks are wet they can be very slippery.
“If you ever see anyone in trouble in the water you should phone the police and they will co-ordinate a response from there.”