#GetWaterWise: Plea to stay safe in water as Scots head to the coast to soak up weather
The Ardrossan Coastguard Rescue Team has been called to a record number of incidents in recent days.
Last updated 24th Jul 2021
Scots are being asked not to go out of their depth if they decide to go for a dip in a loch or in the sea this weekend.
Thousands of people across the country are flocking to the beach to make the most of the good weather, but experts are pleading with people to stay safe.
The Ardrossan Coastguard Rescue Team says it has been called out to 14 incidents since Wednesday - a record figure.
They include reports of a vehicle hanging over a cliff edge, multiple jellyfish stings and missing children.
Kevin Paterson is the station officer and said: "Think about your own personal safety and don't take any risks.
"Keep inflatables at home because they are designed for the swimming pool and not for use in the sea.
"If you do get into trouble in the water, remember three key words, float to live.
"Fight your instincts and lie back and compose yourself."
Youngsters are being asked not to jump into deep water from a high height.
Kevin is backing our #GetWaterWise campaign which is aiming to raise awareness of the dangers of open water as there tends to be a spike in accidental water deaths during the summer months.
Kevin added: "Stay within your depth and know your limits.
"Don't jump in because you might not know how deep the water is below you and there could be hidden hazards underneath.
"Cold water shock is also a big risk factor when jumping into water.
"It doesn't discriminate and therefore it does not matter how young or old or how fit you are.
"It can very quickly leave you in a serious situation that requires emergency assistance."
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