#GetWaterWise: Public urged to call 999 for water incidents - as crews notice increase in uncertainty

Emergency crews have noticed many people aren't sure who to contact when someone gets into difficulty in the water.

Author: Linsey HannaPublished 30th Jul 2021

As part of Forth 1's #GetWaterWise campaign, the public is being urged to dial 999 if someone gets into trouble in the water.

It's after emergency crews have noticed many people aren't sure who to contact about water-based incidents.

It comes after six people died within just 24 hours in Scottish water last weekend.







Antony Coia, secretary for Open Water Rescue, said: "When an accident happens around water, especially if it's inland such as local rivers or local lochs, the first port of call should be the fire service.

"In an emergency we urge you, please dial 999 and ask for the fire service.

"If the incident happens at the coast such as the seaside down by the beach, you would still dial 999 but ask for the coasguard.

"Around 400 people a year drown in the United Kingdom - that's more than one person every day.

"Although the warm weather is away, it doesn't stop people going into water - they're still attracted to water.

"One factor that accounts for a large percentage of drownings is alcohol consumption.

"Alcohol has a large part to play in accidents around waterways.

"More people die from drowning in the United Kingdom, than in domestic fires or road cycling accidents."

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