4 days ago
Six ways to stay safe in the water after summer tragedies
'Behind every drowning statistic there are families and whole communities devastated'
TAKE CARE Six ways to stay safe in the water after summer tragedies
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WHEN the sun comes out over summer, it's natural to want to cool off.
But taking a dip in one of Scotland's rivers or lochs, or going for a swim in the sea can be deadly - if you're not taking care.
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Experts say people must follow the safety code
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Kirsty Doig started a charity after her daughter died
Last year there were a total of 33 accidental drownings in the country and a total of 193 across the UK. And just last weekend, when the temperatures soared, three people drowned.
Glasgow-based Kirsty Doig, 41, founded the Darcey Sunshine Project after her daughter Darcey tragically died in a pool accident just two months before her fourth birthday.
She said: 'Behind every drowning statistic there are families and whole communities devastated. No one should have to go through it. It's preventable with basic water safety knowledge. We need to get it out there fast because it will save lives.
'Reaching as many people as possible we hope will create a ripple effect, so that kids and young people and everyone can learn and pass on simple bits of information. Tell someone today or share the Water Safety Code and you'll already be helping save a life.'
Here experts share safety tips everyone should know before they get in the water.
WATER SHOCK
TOP in the water safety code is to be aware of the possibility of cold water shock.
As an automatic response to going into cold water, the blood vessels in your skin close and the output from your heart rises. This causes your blood pressure to increase and puts your heart under strain and could cause a heart attack.
The sudden cooling of the skin can also make you gasp involuntarily and increase your breathing rate which can cause you to panic, inhale water and potentially drown.
FLOAT TO SURVIVE
Water Safety Scotland says if you unintentionally fall into the water, don't try to swim straight away.
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Fight your instinct to thrash about and, instead, try to remain calm and relaxed. Then, turn onto your back and adopt the 'starfish' float position.
Once floating and the initial effects of cold water shock have passed - which will take about 90 seconds - you should then call for help and look around for anything that can be used to help you float or get out of the water.
TURNING TIDE
The Water Safety Code warns if you're planning to swim in the sea, be aware of rip currents, wind and the tide.
It's vital to be aware of tide times to avoid the risk of being stranded.
Meanwhile, rip currents - which can reach up to five miles-per-hour - are sometimes identified by a channel of churning, choppy water on the water's surface. Even the most experienced beachgoers can be caught out so it's best to swim at a beach where there is a lifeguard.
THROW LINE
The safety experts say that if you see someone in trouble in the water, do not get in and attempt to help. You risk putting yourself in danger that way.
You should call 999 and ask for the Fire and Rescue Service for inland waters or request the Coastguard for coastal emergencies.
Meanwhile, you should look for a throw line, life ring or anything that floats to aid the person or encourage the person in trouble to float on their back, if it's possible.
STAY SAFE TO SAVE LIVES
THE Darcey Sunshine Foundation team will be at Water Safety Scotland's free World Drowning Prevention Day event at Loch Lomond Shores, Balloch, on Friday, July 25
Now in its fourth year, Water Safety Scotland is warning that continued vigilance is essential to save lives.
Attendees will have the opportunity to learn life-saving tips, watch live rescue demonstrations by SFRS, Scottish Ambulance Service and the Scottish Newfoundland Club rescue dogs and try out paddleboarding and canoeing.
Carlene McAvoy, Founder of Water Safety Scotland, said: 'Every life lost is one too many.
'Events like World Drowning Prevention Day are vital in spreading awareness and equipping people with the knowledge they need to stay safe around water.
'Our focus remains on promoting the Water Safety Code in a fun, engaging, and educational way.'
The event will run from 11am to 4pm and is open to all ages with families, school kids and community groups especially encouraged to attend.
WILD SWIM
The benefits of wild swimming are well documented but the lack of nearby safety equipment and increased challenge in the event of rescue mean it is much riskier than swimming in a pool.
Meanwhile, the depth of the water can change and be unpredictable with underwater ledges and objects causing potential problems.
Experts advise people to join a recognised open water swimming club, to check the weather, go with a friend and have the right equipment, such as a wet suit, brightly coloured swim hat and a tow float.
JACKET MUST
With the weather hotting up, adventurous folk like to get out on the water for activities, such as paddleboarding and canoeing.
Water Safety Scotland says these come with risks if you don't know how to swim properly or you paddle alone. Meanwhile, weather conditions can hamper participants being able to return to the board or canoe if they end up in the water.
This is why they say lifejackets must be worn by every user, regardless of ability.
