SCOTTISH Water is calling on people to stay safe around watercourses this winter.

The utility company is advising people to be vigilant and not to take risks around freezing cold rivers, reservoirs and lochs and any parts of these watercourses that are covered in ice.

Those who enjoy winter walks or runs around reservoirs, lochs and rivers, are being reminded to stay safe and act responsibly when near open water.

People should not go too close to the edge because they could slip and fall in. Adults should keep children safe, and dogs should be kept on a lead if they are being walked near reservoirs and other bodies of open water.

Peter Farrer, Scottish Water’s chief operating officer, said: “Natural hazards can also lurk beneath the surface, where children and adults can get entangled in vegetation or stuck in mud. As the majority of reservoirs are remote, there is a lack of immediate assistance because the emergency services often can’t get to the area quickly.

“Water safety is a priority and we are urging people to stay safe this winter around reservoirs and any other bodies of water.”