Vital lifebuoys have been left submerged in ice at a Dundee reservoir despite growing numbers of people risking their lives on the frozen water.
People have been seen walking, cycling, skating, and throwing sticks on to the water for dogs at the 24-foot-deep Clatto Reservoir in recent weeks.
To make matters worse, five lifebuoys needed in an emergency have been left inaccessible, despite repeated concerns from the local community.
Dorothy McHugh, from Friends of Clatto, said the situation has been keeping her awake at night.
She said: “People think it’s a pond. They forget how deep it is. It’s just so dangerous to go on to the ice.
“How parents can let their kids go on it, I’ll never know.
“That’s been my fear over the past week — that something terrible could happen and there’s no life belts.”
Ms McHugh says she has repeatedly asked the council to move the rings so they are in a safe place.
But workers were only sent to assess the situation after she sent over images proving they were submerged.
Increasing incidents of vandalism have also seen bricks removed from the reservoir’s wall and thrown on to the ice.
Clatto features paths, a playpark, zip line, and woodland. It is popular with walkers and runners throughout the year and links with Templeton Woods.
The reservoir was created as part of Dundee’s water supply 147 years ago but is no longer connected to the network.
Ms McHugh added: “I remember many years ago a young boy died in the reservoir and I would hate for anything like that to happen again.
“I can understand the attraction, of course I can. The skaters on it looked marvellous but it’s just so risky and dangerous.”
A Dundee City Council spokesperson said: “We are in the process of reinstating the life ring supports at the reservoir.
“We would always ask citizens to stay off the frozen water. It may appear safe, but is extremely dangerous.
“Anyone who witnesses vandalism can report it to our Community Safety Wardens on 01382 436333.”
