The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service has shared advice for parents and guardians to keep themselves and their little ones safe near open water as the bank holiday weekend fast approaches.
Scotland enjoys some the most beautiful rivers, lochs, canals and reservoirs that the UK has to offer and they attract thousands of visitors each year and no doubt Glaswegians will be heading out to experience the beauty on their doorstep over the next few days.
From Milngavie reservoir to the pond at Queen's Park, families will be flocking to the many scenic locations Glasgow has to offer for a quick break away from home - but open water poses a risk for children as well as adults.
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If you've had an alcoholic drink, it's important to stay away from the water because alcohol and water do not mix, the fire service said.
A spokesperson for the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service wrote: "Sometimes it can be tempting to go for a dip in a river or loch, especially during the summer months, but swimming in unsupervised open water can be extremely dangerous.
"Open water can become very cold just a few feet under the surface and can cause cramps or cold water shock. Very cold temperatures can also affect your stamina and you may find your strength and ability to swim deteriorates rapidly.
"You might find yourself getting tired a lot more quickly than you would in a heated pool.
"Open water can also look very calm on the surface, but strong undercurrents or unseen objects which could trap or injure you can lie beneath.
"It is also important to remember not to enter the water if you’ve been drinking alcohol – alcohol and water do not mix."
It is important to talk to children about their safety if they are playing near the water. Have a conversation with them and explain:
- They should never swim in an unsupervised area like lochs, rivers or ponds where there is not an adult to help if they get into trouble
- It is much safer to go to a swimming pool where there is a lifeguard on duty
- They should not play with or touch lifesaving equipment like life rings by the side of waterways. That equipment might be used to save someone’s life.
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