The Perth -based Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) has issued safety advice aimed at people considering using the River Tay to cool off in during warm summer weather.
Scotland has had multiple deaths and numerous water-related scares in the past week.
Local representatives of RNLI, which has a base at Inveralmond, are aware of the many people who use ‘ Perth Beach ’ under the railway bridge in the city centre.
Recent incidents of people being surprised by the strength of the current there have prompted RNLI to underline its safety advice.
Partnering up with SFRS, the group will conduct more patrols in areas popular with bathers.
The RNLI’s water safety lead for Scotland Michael Avril said: “There’s no denying that Scotland has been enjoying a heat wave of late and scenes of young people cooling off in rivers and towns across the country have been widespread.
“However the RNLI, which aims to educate the public about drowning prevention, is determined to share the potentially life-threatening consequences of ‘taking a quick dip’.
“Rivers pose a particular risk to our young people and I hope parents will share this with their children.
“Any death by drowning is tragic and we’ve already seen too many this summer, our thoughts are very much with the loved ones of those who have lost their lives.
“Nobody ever thinks it will happen to them.
“But we just want people, especially younger people, to stop and think of the dangers.
“We all think we are immortal when we’re teenagers, we all like to take risks but we’re really asking people to be aware of the heart-breaking consequences of these risks.
“Rivers can look inviting, like a great place to cool off, especially when you see your mates enjoying it or the sun is shining down, however, the risks are all too real.
“Be willing to be the person in your friendship group that asks ‘is this a good idea?’ - it could save a life.”
“Swimming in open water is very different to swimming in a pool. Unseen currents, cold water and waves, yes even in rivers or lochs, can make swimming or even just staying afloat so much harder.
“Even the strongest swimmers can quickly get out of their depth and start to struggle. There’s also the risk of becoming snagged on a hidden object such as a rock, tree root or even a discarded shopping trolley or bike.
“If out paddleboarding or kayaking, take a means of calling for help such as a phone in a waterproof pouch and wear a lifejacket/buoyancy aid.
“Always tell someone where you are going and when to expect you back.
“If you do see someone in trouble in the water call 999 and ask for the coastguard, they will get help to you.”
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) sings from the same song sheet as RNLI when it comes to the danger of swimming in rivers and lochs.
Alasdair Perry, deputy assistant chief officer and head of prevention and protection with SFRS, said: “I would like to offer my sincere condolences and those of everyone at the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service to those affected by recent tragic events. They are a very sad reminder that Scotland’s waterways can be dangerous.
“We would ask that no-one swims alone and that, where you can, have the proper buoyancy and safety equipment. Never leave children or young people unattended and do not mix alcohol with swimming.
“We will be conducting more visits alongside our partners such as the RNLI to popular areas to engage with swimmers and visitors directly.”
The message from the RNLI and SFRS is clear though, when it comes to water: "Don’t take risks, it could cost you your life.”
