Perth youths are dicing with death at the River Tay, parents have been told.
The warning came after a city centre councillor raised with police the problem of “youths larking around” along the riverside at North Muirton.
SNP councillor Eric Drysdale mentioned the issue at a meeting of the housing and communities committee this week.
He also raised the issue of damage being done to lifesaving equipment, which we reported on last month.
And after the meeting, he revealed to the PA there had been reports of youths putting their lives at risk in the water, some of whom may have been drunk.
He said: “I’m aware of two incidents recently.
"To damage lifesaving equipment is stupid, the most inappropriate thing someone can do.
"I was told there was some vandalism of this kind at the riverside along the North Inch some weeks ago.
“A second concern brought to me was youths larking around, this time getting in the water, again by the North Inch.
“The Tay is a fast-flowing river and even experienced swimmers keep well clear. This cooling off on the riverbank with friends behaviour often is accompanied by drinking.
“I’d call it an accident waiting to happen. The youngsters are risking their lives.”
Cllr Drysdale was assured at the meeting that Police Scotland is taking the matter seriously.
Chief Inspector Ian Scott told the committee: “Tragically we have had more than our fair share of losses of life over the years.
“When safety equipment is damaged, we look to replace it as quickly as possible.
“We are sharing information through schools about the dangers that water can bring.
“We do have sensational rivers
and lochs in the area that people want to use. What we have been doing is trying to have patrols in the area.”
CI Scott also wanted to reiterate the message that “even though the weather is hot, the water is still freezing and there are undercurrents”.
Cycle patrols are also out in the area, and CI Scott said they would like to see parents and communities aid their work to ensure safety.
