SUB-ZERO TEMPERATURES AROUND Moray have prompted a renewed call by Scottish Water for people to take particular care around water courses in the region.
While insisting they have no wish to spoil anyone’s fun, the company is reminding parents in particular, to ensure their children are safe – and adding that adults should also act responsibly around such areas.
People should not walk on frozen water and should not go too close to the edge, because they could slip and fall in, whilst dogs should be kept on a lead if they are being walked near reservoirs and other bodies of open water.
They are also issuing reminders that reservoirs are man-made features which, because of their purpose, have unique dangers such as dams, spillways (overflows) and hidden water intakes (underwater pipe work that takes water out of the reservoir) – as well as hazards common to natural bodies of water, for example reeds, strong currents, steep banks and deep cold water.
Also, as the majority of Scottish Water’s reservoirs are situated in remote locations, there is 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.
Peter Farrer, Scottish Water’s Chief Operating Officer, said: “Natural hazards can lurk beneath the surface, where children and adults can get entangled in vegetation or stuck in mud.
“As the majority of reservoirs are remote, there is a lack of immediate assistance. Safety education is a priority. Please stay safe near watercourses at any time of year and, in particular, during the sub-zero temperatures and cold weather we are currently experiencing.”
Customers wishing more information can contact Scottish Water’s Customer Helpline on 0800 0778778 or visit www.scottishwater.co.uk/takecare.
They can also visit www.scottishwater.co.uk/winter where they will find winter information, films and advice. Follow Scottish Water on Twitter @scottish_water and Facebook www.facebook.com/scottishwater.