An online event to show people how to enjoy the water safely this summer and reduce the risk of drowning has been launched by fire service bosses.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is encouraging people to sign up for the vital educational course next month which could help save a life.
It was created to equip parents with the knowledge to keep children and young people safe and prevent tragedies from impacting communities.
In June last year, 13-year-old William McNally lost his life a few days after getting into difficulty in the River Gryfe at a spot known as the Clay Pits.
The tragic death of the Linwood teen sparked a number of safety initiatives by Renfrewshire Council, including the installation of safety buoys and ropes in the area.
Signs were also installed to allow emergency services to identify exactly where a call has been made from, making Renfrewshire just the second council to adopt the system, with Glasgow City Council using it along the River Clyde.
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The GPS signs are set to be placed at six “potentially dangerous” and deep spots along the River Gryfe - including the Clay Pits - where youths are known to swim.
William’s mum Sharron said at the time the new measures were a “fitting tribute” to her son and hoped they would save at least one life.
She said: “If they save just one life, then it will be so worthwhile,” she said.
“These safety buoys are in memory of William and all the people before him who have lost their lives in the River Gryfe.”
The webinar event is being held on May 4 in partnership with Glasgow City Parents Group, and will give insights into the potential risks and dangers of entering open water.
The effects of cold-water shock will be discussed, and participants will also receive information on what to do in an emergency.
Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Alasdair Perry is Head of Prevention and Protection at SFRS and said the courses are important to ensure families can stay safe this summer.
He said: “We are committed to working with our partners. This initiative with Glasgow City Parents Group provides the ideal channel to speak directly to parents about water safety and the dangers around water.
“We want families to enjoy the water, but more importantly we want families to enjoy it safely.
“The addition of the new educational resources comes as a direct result of our collaborative partnership work and our commitment to Water Safety Scotland.
“We hope that this information will reach as many young people as possible while supporting our partners in the rollout of the resources.”
Leading the webinar will be Watch Commander Barry MacMillan, who has worked for SFRS for more than 20 years and has had first-hand experience of attending many water rescues.
The event coincides with the launch of new educational resources from Water Safety Scotland, of which SFRS is a member.
The materials can be found on Education Scotland’s website.
If you would like to join the online event, you can register on Eventbrite here
