Stay safe on and around the water
SCOTLAND is known for its beautiful scenery – lochs, rivers, more than 300 reservoirs, around 6000 miles of coastline and almost 140 miles of canal.
Sadly, the rate of accidental drownings in Scotland is twice that of the UK average and drowning is among the leading causes of accidental deaths in Scotland. Most drownings last year were inland, in rivers, lochs and canals, all of which canbe very cold even in the height of summer.
Back in the summer, Helix Park in Falkirk hosted a free Water Safety Open Day, supporting the second annual World Drowning Prevention Day. The Scottish Fire & Rescue Service, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, the police, St Andrews First Aid, the Scottish Ambulance Service, Scottish Canals and Newfoundland rescue dogs were among the organisations demonstrating water safety, sharing the Water Safety Code and lifesaving information.
Stop and think, spot the dangers Stay together, stay close
In an emergency, call 999
Water Safety Scotland, a voluntary association of organisations and individuals, works to prevent waterrelated fatalities, with the aim of reducing accidental drowning deaths in Scotland by 50% by 2026. Scottish Canals’ Canal Careful campaign runs throughout the year and gives tips to stay safe whether you’re walking, swimming, camping, cycling or paddling Scotland’s canals.