Water can be a killer

Jul 3 2009 by Stephen Robertson, Stirling Observer Friday

SCOTTISH Water are reminding youngsters to play safe around construction sites, rivers, reservoirs, lochs and burns as the school holidays get underway.

Each year, there are more accidental drownings in inland waters than in any other type of water – and building sites can be dangerous places for children to play in too.

Jane McKenzie, Scottish Water’s Regional communities manager for Stirling has issued advice to local children and adults.

She said: “While it’s important that youngsters enjoy the holidays and that people across Scotland take pleasure in the country’s lochs, rivers and reservoirs, it’s also vital that they stay safe.

“Reservoirs can host a number of hidden dangers, such as deep cold water, steep banks, underwater plant life, water inlets and dams.

For these reasons and in the interests of our customers’ health and safety, Scottish Water does not encourage swimming or diving in any of our reservoirs.

“We also have a construction programme rolling out across various sites throughout Stirling.

“Construction sites are not safe places for children to play and we urge children to ‘play it safe’.”