Scottish Water is urging people to stay safe and not take risks around rivers, reservoirs and lochs this summer.

The latest figures from the National Water Safety Forum show that, in 2017, a total of 46 people lost their lives to unintentional drowning in Scotland.

Peter Farrer, Scottish Water’s chief operating officer, said: “While everyone should enjoy their school holidays or take pleasure in the country’s beautiful lochs, rivers and reservoirs, it’s absolutely vital that they stay safe at all times.

“Safety is a serious issue as, while the water may look harmless, there are many hidden dangers.

"We need to ensure children, and parents, are aware of these hazards.

"We are reminding parents to keep their children safe and asking adults to act responsibly around watercourses.”

Scottish Water’s advice is also targeted at pet owners.

One of the biggest concerns with dog owners is when their pet dives into water, chasing a ball or stick.

The pet more often survives such incidents, but the owners, who have attempted to save them, sometimes don’t.

Dogs need to be kept on a lead if they are being walked near reservoirs and other bodies of open

water.