Stay safe near water warning

TAKE care when playing around water during the summer is the message from Scottish Water as schools prepare to break up for the long holiday break.

Parents and children are being urged to play it safe around rivers, lochs, reservoirs and other bodies of water.

Scottish Water’s Communities Manager for the north east Steve Scott is concerned people might take unnecessary risks around water during the summer holidays, especially if the weather improves.

He wants adults to act responsibily to ensure children’s safety and make sure they don’t take any risks.

He said that in previous years, the number of accidental drownings inland has peaked during hot spells.

The message is being reiterated by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents who warn against hidden dangers of playing in reservoirs, especially where there are hidden water pipes or cold spots, and at rivers where there is hidden vegetation.

"We want people to be out and about enjoying the summery weather and ideally swimming at properly-supervised sites, such as the local swimming pool," he said.

Dog owners are also being urged not to go after a pet which dives in, chasing a ball or stick. The pet more often survives such incidents, but the owners, who have attempted to save them, sometimes do not.

Phone the Customer Helpline on 0845 601 8855 or visit www.scottishwater.co.uk/takecare for up to date advice.