A national campaign is putting water safety in the spotlight.
More than 100 young people in Clackmannanshire are taking part in specially designed swimming sessions this month as part of a Scotland-wide campaign for Drowning Prevention Week.
The sessions, part of the Learn to Swim programme, aim to teach children how to stay safe in and around water.
John Lunn, CEO of Scottish Swimming, said: "Every June, our Learn to Swim classes shift focus to concentrate on water safety.
"It’s not just about being a strong swimmer—understanding how to recognise hazards, help others in distress and make smart decisions around water is equally important."
Across Scotland, swimming pools are turning regular lessons into water safety workshops.
Children are being taught the Water Safety Code and basic floating techniques that could help save lives in emergencies.
The focus on water safety comes as recent figures highlight the risks.
In 2024, there were 33 accidental drownings in Scotland, according to the National Water Safety Forum.
Drowning prevention is a key goal of the Learn to Swim National Framework.
Each June, the programme delivers targeted water safety lessons in partnership with leisure trusts and aquatic providers.
Peter Farrer, Chief Operating Officer at Scottish Water, said: "We cannot over-emphasise the importance of water safety all year round, but it’s particularly relevant as we approach summer when people are often more likely to be around water.
"These water safety lessons provide an opportunity to equip people with the vital knowledge and skills to help them feel safer in, on and around water, and help their parents and family network feel confident and comfortable in their swimming abilities."
The Learn to Swim National Framework is delivered by 38 leisure trusts and aquatic providers in 167 pools across Scotland.
The programme aims to create "Generation Swim" — a generation of confident, competent, and safer swimmers who can enjoy the wider health and social benefits of swimming.
Currently, the programme reaches around 82,000 children across the country.
More information about the Learn to Swim programme can be found on the Learn to Swim website.
This year, participants will also have access to a new interactive water safety quiz designed to reinforce key messages.
The framework is committed to providing inclusive, supportive, and high-quality environments for learners of all ages and abilities.
Drowning Prevention Week is organised by the Royal Life Saving Society (RLSS).
It is one of the largest water safety campaigns in the UK and Ireland.
Share