Scottish Water is urging everyone to take care around reservoirs, rivers, lochs and beaches as the summer season begins.
New figures show the scale of the risks.
In 2024, 33 people drowned accidentally in Scotland, with 193 such tragedies across the UK.
Over the past five years, Scotland has seen 244 accidental drownings, including 20 children.
Recent weeks have brought reports of dangerous behaviour at reservoirs, including diving from structures, lighting campfires and littering.
Such actions not only threaten lives but harm the environment too.
Peter Farrer, Scottish Water’s chief operating officer, is encouraging people to enjoy the outdoors safely.
“Reservoirs may look calm and inviting,” he said, “but beneath the surface are hidden dangers such as deep, cold water, steep banks and underwater pipework.
“We urge everyone to stay safe and act responsibly.”
Many reservoirs are in remote areas where phone signals are weak and help can be far away.
Swimming is not advised in these locations.
Pet owners should also be cautious.
If a dog gets into trouble in the water, attempting a rescue can be deadly.
Scottish Water’s campaign is supported by the Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK).
Their Drowning Prevention Week, running from 14 to 21 June, aims to raise awareness ahead of the school holidays.
Matt Croxall, Interim Charity Director at RLSS UK, said:
“Only 39 percent of accidental drownings involved people who planned to enter the water.
“It shows how easily situations can turn dangerous.”
He added:
“With many families taking staycations this summer, it is vital that everyone knows what to do in an emergency.”
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) is also backing the campaign.
Carlene McAvoy, Senior Policy Manager at RoSPA, said:
“Every drowning is a tragedy that devastates families and communities.
“Following the Water Safety Code can save lives.”
Scottish Water’s team of reservoir rangers will be on patrol at popular sites across the country.
They are providing advice and promoting responsible behaviour.
Rangers also work with Police Scotland, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and local councils to deliver school talks and community events.
Education is key to long-term prevention.
The Learn to Swim National Framework, a partnership between Scottish Water and Scottish Swimming, is helping thousands of children and adults gain life-saving swimming skills.
More than 83,000 people are learning to swim every week across Scotland.
On 25 July, Scottish Water will host a free Water Safety Open Day at Loch Lomond Shores.
Families can enjoy demonstrations and fun activities while learning vital safety tips.
For more advice, visit www.scottishwater.co.uk/watersafety.
