Water Safety Advice
Last updated | 25/05/2010
During the summer it can be tempting to cool off by taking a swim or paddle in one of the many burns, lochs and rivers that we have in Perth and Kinross.
Whilst water may look serene whilst walking, cycling, riding or visitiong nearby areas, it has many hidden dangers. Under water currents can be very strong, and even paddlers can be pulled over.
- There is little indication as to how deep the water maybe and although it could be shallow at the edges, in places shelves can lead to much deeper water being very close to the waters edge.
- From the side, you cannot tell what is on the bed of the loch or burn, sharp stones or objects can cause injuries to those that venture in.
- The weather may be warm but the water is still very cold, and it is possible to go into thermal shock if your body temperature changes rapidly, and this can make it hard to breath and control yourself - even the strongest of swimmers can find swimming hard in these instances.
- Many of our watercourses are controlled by dams upstream, and in these cases a small burn can rapidly become a fast flowing rapid if the dam releases water.
- Blue green algal blooms can affect many lochs and areas of still water during the summer, and this can be harmful to both humans and animals.
Pets and the Water
Many of the same danagers apply to pets in warm weather, and you should always be careful in encouraging pets into the water.
- Blue Green Algae can be toxic for pets if they swallow water, so please be vigilant when near lochs and still water areas during the summer.
- Lochs are home to nesting birds, particularly around the waters edges, and dogs can disturb nesting broods or young.
Advice
The best advice is not to go into the water. The Scottish Outdoor Access Code contains advice as to your access rights to water. If you get into difficulties or see womeone in trouble, please contact the emergency services.
