Stay Safe As Summer Sizzles - Lowland Canals

30 June 2006

Glorious sunshine and beautiful clear skies are paving the way for summer. With longer days and rising temperatures British Waterways wants people to take care as they enjoy the Lowland Canals this summer.

The glistening water may look inviting on a warm day, but canals and rivers are not for swimming in. Water is frequently far colder than expected and can lead to muscle cramps in even the strongest of swimmers.

Canals are shallow stretches of water and serious injury can occur if people jump or dive into the water. Submerged objects pose further dangers and underwater currents on rivers or those created by passing boats are hazardous.

Richard Millar, Service and Business Development Manager, British Waterways Scotland says: "We want everyone to have a great time when they visit the canal network this summer but it is important to remember that swimming in waterways is extremely dangerous and should not be undertaken under any circumstances. Scotland 's canals offer everything from breathtaking scenery and tremendous boating opportunities to a host of shore based events and activities which can be enjoyed safely by all the family. "

It's particularly important over the summer to ensure that children are always supervised when near to water. British Waterways' message for all visitors is to stay SAFE - S tay A way F rom the E dge, particularly with popular activities involving young children such as wildlife spotting, feeding the ducks or dog walking.

As part of its national initiative to enthuse, involve and inspire young people about the UK 's inland waterway network, British Waterways' educational website has specific information about being safe near water. Wild Over Waterways can be visited at www.wow4water.net.

For further information and advice regarding safety around our waterways, please call British Waterways' Customer Service Centre on 01923 201120.

www.waterscape.com has more information about great days out and places to visit on the waterways network.

ENDS 

Issued on behalf of British Waterways Scotland by Wave PR. For more information contact Chris Bell or Alison Jack on 0141 303 8390. 

Notes to Editors 

Waterscape.com provides information on ALL of Britain 's waterways, and guides visitors through the complete waterside experience in an easy to use, fully comprehensive online resource. The site includes a full range of services including:

British Waterways cares for a 2,200-mile network of canals and navigable rivers across the country and works with a broad range of public, private and voluntary sector partners to improve the social, economic and environmental benefits of the inland waterways.