Successful water safety open day at Loch Lomond Shores
As part of World Drowning Prevention Day, an open day dedicated to water safety was held on the shores of Loch Lomond on Thursday, 25 July.
The event was a joint effort by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS), Water Safety Scotland, Scottish Water, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, the Darcey Sunshine Foundation, and Argyll and Bute Council.
The goal was to raise awareness about water safety and the Water Safety Code, and to mark this year’s World Drowning Prevention Day.
Highlights of the event included a water rescue simulation performed by our water rescue teams from Knightswood and Stirling Community Fire Stations.
SFRS Youth Volunteers also actively participated and sharing their knowledge about water safety.
The key safety message for all of us is to follow the 3-step Water Safety Code and remember that water is still very cold, even on warm days.
3-step Water Safety Code:
- Stop and think, spot the dangers.
- Stay together and stay close.
- In an emergency, call 999.
Station Commander James Sullivan is the SFRS Community Safety Engagement Officer for water safety. He said: “We are delighted to participate in the water safety open day and work alongside partners.
“We want people of all ages to be safe around water and understand the risks and prevent drowning.
“Water Safety Scotland, which we are a member of, offers a range of educational resources tailored to different age groups on water safety.
“The key safety message for all of us is to follow the 3-step Water Safety Code and remember that water is still very cold, even on warm days.
“If you are having difficulty in water, then lie on your back, spread your arms and legs until the initial effects of cold water shock pass in around 90 seconds, and float to live.
“If a member of the public sees someone else in trouble in the water, they should never enter the water to attempt a rescue. They should immediately call 999 and request the emergency services."
For more information on how to stay safe around water, please check our guidance.
Carlene McAvoy is the Secretariat and Founder of Water Safety Scotland. She said: “According to our latest report, water-related fatalities are at their lowest level since 2018.
“Of course, this is promising, but this is no time for complacency on our part; one death is too many.
“Fortunately, events like World Drowning Prevention Day play a key role in promoting water safety and drowning prevention globally, nationally and locally.
“Our event is underpinned by our key message – the Water Safety Code.
“The code provides life-saving information and advice and the event ensures that this is done in a fun and interactive way to help people in Scotland have a positive and safe experience in and around water.“
For more information on water safety guidance, please visit Water Safety Scotland's website.