Scottish Water and Scottish Fire and Rescue Service on Safety Patrol at Gladhouse

Scottish Water and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service this week warned people about the dangers at reservoirs and other bodies of water when they patrolled a popular reservoir in Midlothian.

David Gray, from Scottish Water's Land Strategy Team, and David Main, Watch Commander for SFRS Midlothian, carried out a joint patrol at Gladhouse Reservoir - one of the utility company's busiest - to help advise visitors how to stay safe around reservoirs.

The two organisations are advising people to be vigilant and not to take risks around reservoirs, lochs and rivers, particularly when water levels, conditions or weather can change quickly.

While people should enjoy spending time outdoors around the country’s beautiful reservoirs, lochs and rivers, it is vital that they stay safe and act responsibly at all times when near open water.

Their advice is:

• People should not go too close to the edge because they could slip and fall in
• Adults should keep children safe
• People should be aware of hidden hazards such as deep water, steep banks and underwater structures
• And dogs should be kept on a lead if they are being walked near reservoirs and other bodies of open water

Reservoirs are man-made features which have unique dangers such as dams, spillways (overflows) and hidden water intakes (underwater pipe work that takes water out of the reservoir) and other hazards common to natural bodies of water, such as reeds, strong currents, steep banks and deep cold water.

As the majority of Scottish Water's reservoirs are situated in remote locations, there is also a lack of immediate assistance. For these reasons, and in the interests of public safety, Scottish Water does not encourage swimming or diving in any of its reservoirs.

David Gray from Scottish Water's Land Strategy Team said: “Working in partnership with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service allows us to deliver clear, consistent safety messages to people who visit our reservoirs.”

“Through joint patrols like this, as well as events and school visits throughout the year, we’re able to highlight the real risks that exist around open water.

“With Gladhouse being one of our busiest sites, it’s vital that we continue this collaborative approach. These patrols will continue into the peak summer season, when additional safety messaging around issues such as uncontrolled fires and other irresponsible behaviour becomes increasingly important.”

Reservoirs and other bodies of water are deep, cold and dangerous at any time of year, and pose a real risk for visitors who do not act in a responsible manner. 

David Main, Watch Commander for SFRS Midlothian said: "If a person or animal falls into the water it can be fatal, so please act responsibly around any water bodies and keep children and pets under close control.

“Water rescues require highly skilled firefighters with special equipment. If someone is in need of help do not enter the water yourself as you will also be at risk. Dial 999 and wait for help to arrive.”

With peak nesting season approaching, visitors are also reminded to keep dogs under control around reservoirs. Ground-nesting birds and livestock can be easily disturbed, so using a lead and following local signage can help protect sensitive habitats.

The patrol at Gladhouse Reservoir was part of the Midlothian Partnership Approach to Water Safety (PAWS) group, which brings agencies together throughout the year for joint patrols, events, school visits and social media campaigns.