#GetWaterWise this summer, as experts predict spike in drowning
We're raising awareness of the dangers of open water, as we enter the season when accidental drownings are most likely to occur
Last updated 18th Jun 2021
Water safety campaigners are warning this summer could be one of the worst ever for accidental drownings.
Scotland sees around 43 accidental drownings each year, with 87% involving men.
A combination of people staying in the UK, warmer weather, and young people missing out on swimming education are all factors that threaten to send numbers soaring this year.
We're launching our #GetWaterWise project to raise awareness of the issue and try and prevent further tragedies.
Recent tragedies
Central Scotland MSP Graham Simpson is backing our campaign.
He said: "There have been a couple of tragedies of children recently.
"One in Falkirk and one most recently in the River Clyde where the young boy died, so I think it's great that you're raising awareness of this.
"Particularly as the weather is starting to get better, and that's when kids tend to be attracted to the water, so now is the right time to be launching this."
"We've just got to keep hammering home the messages - stay away from water, it's dangerous - currents can catch you out."
WATCH: Senior Correspondent Mick Coyle sets out the facts about accidental drowning
Know the facts on accidental drowning in Scotland
People of all ages can die in drowning accidents:
- On average 43 people across Scotland die in our waterways each year
- 87% of these involve men
- July is the month with the most fatalities
- 40% of those who die have no intention of entering the water
Lack of education could increase risk
The Royal Life Saving Society is urging parents and carers to make sure their children know about water safety.
Each year, they host Drowning Prevention Week, which this year runs between 19th and 26th June.
- Over 55% of parents surveyed said they would not be confident their child would know what to do if they fell into open water.
- Drowning is one of the leading causes of death in children and the risk of drowning increases from the age of 15.
- 1 in 3 of those surveyed said their swimming abilities limited the activities they could do
- 62.4% of accidental drowning happen in inland water.
- 95% of black adults and 80% of black children do not swim.
Campaign to save lives
In the run up to the summer holidays, we'll be using the hashtag #GetWaterWise to pass on safety advice in our news, and on our social media feeds.
We hope it can prevent a spike in incidents this summer.
RLSS UK’s Charity Director Lee Heard, said: “We are surrounded by opportunities to be in or near water. Whatever their age and activity level, everyone should be having fun, creating memories and feeling at ease around the water.
"The inequality in access to swimming and water safety education, and subsequent lack of potential interaction with the water is a big concern."
#GetWaterWise Water safety tips to stay safe this summer
Follow this advice, and stay safe around water
During hot summer days, lakes, rivers, reservoirs and the sea can look really tempting.
But beneath the surface can lie hidden dangers, cold temperatures an unexpected currents.
The Royal Life Saving Society has this advice to stay safe.
Look out for lifeguards
If you're looking for a place to cool off always find a lifeguarded swimming site.
It’s colder than it looks
Water at open water and inland sites is often much colder than it looks, cold water can affect your ability to swim and self-rescue.
Don’t go too far
Always swim parallel to the shore, that way you're never too far away from it.
It's stronger than it looks
Currents in the water can be very strong. If you find yourself caught in a riptide – don't swim against it – you'll tire yourself out. Swim with the current and call for help.
Bring a friend
Always bring a friend when you go swimming so if anything goes wrong you've got someone there to help.
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