Water bosses urge people to stay safe when near rivers, lochs or reservoirs this winter
Don’t take risks around bodies of water and watercourses in cold conditions Scottish Water is calling on people to stay safe around watercourses this winter.
The utility company is advising people to be vigilant and not to take risks around freezing cold rivers, reservoirs and lochs and parts of these watercourses that are covered in ice.
It is also advising people about the hidden dangers in reservoirs and urging them to be particularly careful if they visit one.
Peter Farrer, Scottish Water’s chief operating officer, said:“As the majority of reservoirs are remote, there is a lack of immediate assistance.
“Safety education is a priority. Please play safe this winter.”
Scottish Water’s safety message is being supported by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA).
“We really want people, particularly children, to get out and enjoy Scotland’s beautiful waterways through the winter months,“said Carlene McAvoy, community safety development officer for RoSPA Scotland.
“But we urge them to do so safely.
“We encourage parents to educate their children about the potentially deadly dangers of walking on frozen water, as children are among those most at risk.
“If a pet runs out on to the ice or jumps into the water, please do not go after them.”
Further winter safety advice is available at www.rospa.com.