A NEW campaign has been launched to promote water safety following reports of people plunging into lakes and rivers to cool down.

Police in West Dunbartonshire have been working with the Fire Service, Scottish Canals and Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park to raise awareness of the issue.

A force spokesman said there had been problems with young people jumping into open water in local places, including Bowling Basin.

He said people did not realise the risks associated with plunging into cold water and warned it could cause people's bodies to cramp or even go into schock.

He said: "Very cold water can also have an impact on your ability to swim and you could tire out quicker than normal.

"Open water often looks calm on the surface but once you jump in you could become trapped by strong undercurrents or injure yourself on unseen objects lying beneath the surface.

"It is also extremely dangerous to go swimming if you are under the influence of alcohol."

Area Commander for West Dunbartonshire Chief Inspector Mark Lundie said: "This advice is aimed at anyone thinking of taking a dip in open water this summer but it is also very important that parents and guardians take note.

"Please make sure young people in your charge are aware of just how dangerous this can be – once they’re in the water it’s not like being in a swimming pool and they may struggle to get back out.

"Over the years we have seen some horrific tragedies locally where young people have lost their lives in open water and we don’t want to see any more.

"There are plenty of options for people to go for a swim in a supervised and safe environment so don’t put your life at risk by jumping into places like the Bowling Basin."

Andrew Stevenson, head of operational delivery at Scottish Canals, said: "The Forth & Clyde Canal is an excellent place to enjoy the fleeting Scottish summer, whether by spending a day tackling the towpaths by boot or bike, relaxing at Bowling Basin or taking a trip to see The Kelpies.

"But, no matter how the public choose to enjoy the waterways, it’s incredibly important that everyone is aware of the dangers canals, like any body of open water, can pose. I’d encourage everyone to visit Scotland’s canals this summer but, no matter what their age, to stay safe and stay away from the edge."

Martin Page, Ranger Service Manager for Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park added: "We’re incredibly lucky that the National Park has some of the most iconic and inspiring landscapes in the world that are enjoyed by millions of people each year. We want everyone have an amazing experience and to help that, we would strongly encourage people to behave responsibly and think about their own personal safety in and around water."