Dumfries and Galloway Council is supporting Drowning Prevention Week 2026, urging residents and visitors to stay safe while enjoying the region’s rivers, lochs and coastline.
The campaign, led nationally by the Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK), runs from 13 to 20 June, and highlights the importance of water safety awareness during the warmer months.
Across the UK, inland waterways such as rivers and lochs account for the majority of drowning incidents. Many of these incidents are preventable, often linked to cold water shock, slips, or unexpected entry into the water rather than a lack of swimming ability.
Dumfries and Galloway’s natural landscape, including the Rivers Nith, Annan, Dee and Cree, as well as extensive coastline, attracts residents and visitors year-round. However, these environments can present significant risks. Rural water locations are often remote, with limited phone signal and access, meaning help may not be immediately available in an emergency.
Councillor Tracey Little, Chair of Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Education, Skills and Community Wellbeing Committee, said:
“We all need to stop, think and recognise the dangers. The last thing we want is to stop people enjoying themselves, especially when we are fortunate to live in such a beautiful rural area with its rivers, lochs and coastline.
“However, it is vital that we all understand the risks, stay together and keep close to one another to help prevent tragedies.
“If you see someone in difficulty in the water, do not entre the water yourself. Call 999 immediately and, if possible, look for a throw line or another rescue aid while waiting for the emergency services to arrive.”
The council is reinforcing core safety messages that apply whether people are walking, swimming, paddleboarding or simply enjoying time near water.
Cold water is a particular danger. Even in summer, UK waters are typically below 15°C, which can trigger an involuntary gasp response and rapid breathing, overwhelming even strong swimmers.
Vice Chair of the committee, Councillor George Jamieson 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 entering cold water.
“If you are in trouble in the water float until you feel calm, lean back, extend your arms and legs and float until can control your breathing before you call for help or swim to safety.
“People just need to stop, think and spot the dangers.”
The council is encouraging everyone to follow simple but life-saving advice:
- Stop and think about the risks before going near water.
- Stay together and keep a close eye on children and vulnerable people.
- Avoid entering the water to rescue someone, call 999 and look for something to throw.
- Float if you fall in, tilt your head back, relax and control your breathing.
- Be aware of local conditions, including currents, changing weather and uneven ground.
Drowning Prevention Week aims to equip communities with the knowledge and confidence to enjoy the water safely. By raising awareness locally and sharing consistent safety messages, Dumfries and Galloway Council is supporting national efforts to reduce preventable deaths and protect communities.
For more water safety advice, visit RLSS UK or local partner agencies supporting the campaign.
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