Landmarks across Renfrewshire are lighting up blue today for World Drowning Prevention Day as William McNally’s family continues its campaign to raise awareness of water safety.
Tweedie Hall in Linwood is once again taking part in the campaign, which is marked on 25th July.
Permanent LED lighting was installed at Tweedie Hall in 2024 following efforts by William’s family and Councillor Robert Innes.
The initiative allowed Linwood to join other council buildings and landmarks across Renfrewshire in supporting the annual campaign.
The lighting was inspired by the campaigning of William’s family following his death in 2021.
William was 13 when he got into difficulty while swimming with friends in the River Gryffe at an area known as the Clay Pits, near Linwood, on 5th June 2021.
His friends and the emergency services attempted to rescue him, but William died a few days later. His family have since campaigned to improve water safety and prevent other families experiencing a similar loss.
As part of William’s legacy, Renfrewshire Council has previously worked with his family to install more GPS signage and public rescue equipment at waterways where people may go swimming.
The council has also supported water safety training, including cold water shock response, lifesaving and first aid, while schools have received information about staying safe around water.
A water safety film featuring members of William’s family was also commissioned in 2022 and shared with primary and secondary schools across Renfrewshire and the wider community.
The blue lighting forms part of Renfrewshire Council’s support for World Drowning Prevention Day and aims to raise awareness of staying safe around water while remembering those who have lost their lives.
As families continue to enjoy the summer holidays, William’s mother and Councillor Innes are encouraging people to speak to children and young people about the dangers of open water.
William’s mum Sharron Drennan said: “Every summer, we know that more people will be spending time around rivers, lochs and other open water, and that’s why it’s so important to keep talking about water safety. If sharing William’s story encourages even one person to think twice or make a safer choice, then that conversation could save a life.
“No family should ever have to experience the heartbreak that ours has. We would encourage everyone to take a few moments to learn about the dangers of open water, speak to their children about staying safe and never underestimate the risks, even on a warm summer’s day.
“We’re incredibly grateful that buildings across Renfrewshire, including Tweedie Hall in Linwood now, will once again be lit blue for World Drowning Prevention Day. Every blue light helps keep this message alive, remembers William, and reminds people that a simple conversation about water safety can make all the difference.”
Photo: Sharron Drennan and Councillor Robert Innes with a photograph of William McNally in 2023
Photo Credit: Councillor Robert Innes
Councillor Robert Innes said: “It’s fantastic to see council buildings across Renfrewshire once again lighting up blue to support World Drowning Prevention Day. While this is a council-wide initiative, I’m particularly proud that Tweedie Hall is able to play its part in helping raise awareness here in Linwood now.
“The lighting at Tweedie Hall was installed so our community could visibly support this important campaign and many others around the year. The lights are inspired by the incredible work William McNally’s family continue to do in raising awareness and helping prevent future tragedies. They are ‘William’s lights’.
“We have had really warm weather recently and naturally young people gravitate towards our rivers in this weather. I would encourage people to take a few moments to familiarise themselves with water safety advice that could one day save a life.”
Water Safety Code
Water Safety Scotland’s Water Safety Code gives simple advice on how to stay safe in, on and around the water.
Stop and think, spot the dangers.
- Be aware of cold water shock.
- Keep off all frozen waters.
- Check for safety signage.
- Avoid alcohol and drugs.
- Remember that the depth of the water may hide underwater ledges, hidden currents and unseen items.
- Be aware of other water activities.
- If it is safe to enter the water, make sure you have a safe way out.
- At the coast, consider rip currents, wind and the tide.
Stay together, stay close.
It is better to go near the water with a friend or family member.
If you are in trouble in the water:
- Float until you feel calm.
- Lean back and extend your arms and legs.
- Float until you can control your breathing.
- Then call for help or swim to safety.
In an emergency, call 999.
- If you see someone in trouble, do not enter the water.
- Look for a throw line or life ring to help while waiting for the emergency services.
- Call 999 or 112.
- For inland waters, ask for the Fire and Rescue Service.
- For coastal waters, ask for the Coastguard.
Top tip: Think carefully before taking part in a planned water activity. Check that the provider is fully insured, has skilled staff and holds the relevant accreditation.
Source: Water Safety Scotland – Water Safety Code.