Warnings in Inverness to enjoy the river, but stay out of the water

People in-and-around the centre of Inverness are being urged to be mindful of the potential dangers of entering the River Ness.

This follows recent incidents on the river, including a man who had to be rescued near Bught Park after the 'Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds' concert on Saturday the 8th of June.

Scottish Fire and Rescue, as well as Police Scotland, have attended 17 water-related incidents so far in 2019 in the Highland area - seven of them involving a rescue within the city of Inverness.

Sergeant Julie Connor said: "The River Ness is an iconic and beautiful feature in Inverness but it needs to be treated with respect"

"The river is fast flowing and cold so anyone who enters it can quickly be overwhelmed.

"Many incidents which result in people entering the river come after the consumption of alcohol. In many places the banks of the river are steep and it is possible to accidentally fall into the river, especially if you have been drinking.

"Being under the influence of alcohol reduces your ability to react safely so please be careful around the water if you have been drinking.

"We want people to be able to enjoy the riverside safely - what starts out as a bit of fun could easily end with tragic consequences if care isn't taken."

Deryck Mackay, Inverness City Station Manager for Scottish Fire and Rescue said “We have noticed an increase in the number of people going into the River Ness after a night out.

"So far in 2019 over 40% of our water related incidents has involved water rescue in the city.”

He added “Alcohol consumption can impair your judgement and control and going into a river at night when its dark also makes it difficult for you to be seen.

"Cold water shock is a real danger, especially in the cold water of the River Ness, and you can quickly find yourself in trouble. Our advice is stay out of the water.”