Killin Mountain Rescue Team has warned of the dangers of water at popular visitor hotspots in Stirlingshire following the death of a teenager earlier this month. Freya MacLean, 16, died in a tragic incident at the Falls of Falloch near Crianlarich after emergency services were called to reports of a woman in difficulty at the beauty spot, which has been popular during recent warm weather.
Volunteer team offers advice
Will Diamond from Killin MRT told the Observer: “As an organisation, Killin MRT regularly respond to water-rescue type incidents when requested as part of the multi-agency response to these types of incidents. In general terms, the incidents that we are called to assist with occur in the same locations, such as Bracklinn Falls and Falls of Falloch. These locations are hot-spots in warmer weather and are a draw to the public.”
Diamond noted that both locations have seen countless incidents over the years, as well as multiple fatalities. “The warmer weather always sees a marked influx of visitors to these locations. Both of which has countless hazards,” he said, adding that there are steep sided gorges, hidden rocks, and debris which can cause those entering the waters to become entangled or trapped.
Flash flood risks
“The water levels are also prone to rising without warning as they are fed from mountain sources. Both the Bracklinn Falls and Falls of Falloch have previously encountered unseasonable ‘flash floods’ which have occurred during the warmer months, leading to incidents where the team have been called to assist.”
The Falls of Falloch have been the site of several incidents in recent years, including the death of a 24-year-old man in July 2022 and the rescue of 11 people a year earlier after they became stranded due to fast-flowing torrents. Bracklinn Falls also saw tragedy following the death of Denny teenager Charlie Noble, who was found at the beauty spot in May after reports of concern for a person in the water.
Safety advice for visitors
With warm temperatures set to continue, Diamond offered fresh advice. He urged people to consider The Water Safety Code, which involves “Stop and Think” and “Spot the Dangers!”. He highlighted the risk of cold water shock, one of the biggest issues in Scotland for water rescues: “Although at the surface level, water may seem invitingly warm, it will very quickly become cold regardless of the weather conditions.”
He advised visitors to look for signage, which can advise of hidden dangers and provide What 3 Words locations for emergencies. “We would always advise against any alcohol or drugs when in, or around water, and consider any hidden dangers. These would include for example, underwater ledges, hidden currents, or unseen items, such as debris that swimmers could potentially become entangled or trapped in.”
Diamond also recommended telling someone your plans and expected return time, and going with someone when entering water. “If you do get into trouble, try wherever possible to follow the advice of ‘float to stay alive’. If you get into trouble in water, lean back and extend your arms and legs and try to float until you feel calm. Once you have your breathing under control, try to swim to safety or call for help.”
