Dumfries and Galloway Council will mark Drowning Prevention Week 2025 from 14–20 June by promoting the importance of staying safe in and around water this summer.
The council is a member of the local Water Safety Forum and works alongside a range of partner organisations to raise awareness of the risks associated with water-based activities and to encourage safe and responsible behaviour.
Drowning Prevention Week is an annual campaign organised by the Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK). It aims to inform communities about how to enjoy the water safely–especially during warmer months when people are more likely to swim, paddle, or play in lochs, rivers and at the coast.
Dumfries and Galloway is home to an abundance of beautiful natural water bodies, along with managed facilities such as leisure centres and swimming pools. While activities in and around water can be a great way to enjoy the summer, safety must always come first.
The key messages are clear:
• Never mix alcohol with swimming or water sports.
• Be cautious with inflatables, particularly in the sea, where currents can pull them out quickly.
• Always follow local safety guidance.
• If someone is in trouble, do not enter the water–call 999 and use any available rescue aids, such as a throw line or ring.
Councillor Maureen Johnstone, Chair of Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Education, Skills and Community Wellbeing Committee, said:
“The last thing we want to do is stop people from having fun, particularly since we live in such a beautiful rural area with our rivers, lochs and coastline, but we need to warn people of the dangers, and also encourage people to stay together and stay close to help prevent drownings and if you see someone in trouble, do not enter the water, but call 999, look for a throw line or ring to help.”Vice Chair of the committee, Lynne Davis said:
“Drowning incidents don’t just happen when people aren’t strong swimmers, there are other reasons such as hidden currents and the shock to the body caused by diving into cold water. If you are in trouble in the water float until you feel calm and can control your breathing before you call for help or swim to safety. People just need to stop, think and spot the dangers.”
For more water safety guidance, visit RLSS UK’s website at rlss.org.uk.
