Call for safety around water

We're being urged to take care around water - after the death of a 16-year-old boy at Bracklinn Falls.

This week is Drowning Prevention Week.

Charlie Noble passed away last month at the beauty spot near Callander.

His funeral is being held later this month.

There were 39 accidental drownings across Scotland in 2025.

Convener of Stirling Council’s Environment, Transport and Net Zero Committee, Cllr Alasdair Tollemache said: “Stirling is home to some of Scotland’s most scenic watercourses, but they contain hidden dangers which can be life threatening to even experienced swimmers. The spate of recent water-related tragedies across the UK is a stark reminder of this.

“Ahead of the school summer holidays and peak tourist season, when we know more families and visitors will be spending time near our rivers, lochs and reservoirs, it’s important that we remind people of all ages of the serious risks and to follow the Water Safety Code to stay safe.

“Please help us save lives and enable everyone to enjoy Stirlingshire’s beautiful outdoors safely by raising awareness of the Code with families, friends and others.”

Leigh Hamilton, Ranger Service Manager, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority said: "We are delighted to continue our longstanding collaborative work with local and national partners to raise water safety awareness, including Water Safety Scotland’s Water Safety Code, not only during Drowning Prevention Week, but in the weeks and months that follow.

"Our Rangers will be on the loch and on land this summer, helping everyone to enjoy the summer holidays in the National Park safely. 

“The responsibility for educating everyone on the vital importance of water safety does not rest with any single organisation or agency. It doesn't happen overnight, or even over a season. It doesn't happen with one targeted public awareness campaign or event. Achieving meaningful progress and properly instilling this life-saving knowledge takes a long-term, integrated and sustained effort - locally and nationally.” 

Station Commander Anthony Mallon is the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service's (SFRS) Community Safety Engagement for Prevention. He said: “We want people of all ages to be safe around water to prevent drowning.

“Remember that water is still very cold, even on warm days. The key safety message for all of us is to follow the 3-step Water Safety Code.

“If you are having difficulty in water, then lie on your back, spread your arms and legs and float to live. If you see someone else in trouble in the water, never enter the water to attempt a rescue. You should call 999 and request the emergency services.”

Peter Farrer, Chief Operating Officer at Scottish Water, which has about 300 reservoirs across the country, said: "At reservoirs, which are working parts of our infrastructure, the water might look harmless but there are many hidden dangers such as underwater pipework.

"The water temperature can also be very cold, even in warm weather. We urge visitors to read the warning signs about people having died at reservoirs and we do not encourage people to swim in them."