THE Loch Lomond rescue boat will be on display to the public at an open day next month.

The crew and their craft, named St John, will be at Loch Lomond Shores between 10am and 4pm on Saturday, July 8, when members of the public will have the chance to find out more about the rescue boat and its work as well as meeting other emergency services and finding out water safety advice as the summer holidays get into full swing.

The rescue boat’s latest callout saw the crew sent to the aid of an 18-foot Mastercraft motor vessel that broke down near the Aber Isle, at the south end of the loch, on Sunday afternoon.

The members of the crew were alerted at 4.36pm and attached a tow line to the vessel, which had two adults and two children on board, before towing it back to Ross Priory.

Set up in 1977 with money donated by an unknown sailor, the boat, which is based in Luss, and its crew are available at all times to provide an emergency rescue service on the loch.

They also encourage and promote all aspects of safety in and around the waters of Loch Lomond, including the safety of boat users, canoeists, windsurfers and those on jet-skis.

Meanwhile, with the busiest time of the year on the loch fast approaching, the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park has published a helpful list of reminders for those planning to take to the water under their own steam.

With more people than ever before braving the waters, there are clubs and smaller scale events to help you get started. Whether you’re a tentative beginner or an experienced open water swimmer, it’s essential that you’re well prepared before getting in the water:

Some places are better than others for swimming. Avoid busy boating/ferry areas where possible. Milarrochy Bay on East Loch Lomond is a popular site.

As you are low in the water, it can be difficult for other water users to spot you, so always wear a brightly coloured swim cap and, if possible, use a swim safety device – these are brightly coloured inflatable bags which you can tow behind you whilst swimming.

Other tips include swimming with at least one other person; using an escort canoe/kayak where possible, which can also display the alpha flag (international sign of diver in the water); always swimming within your own capabilities and being aware of the effects of gradual chilling.

You should also check weather conditions before heading out, as a large swell can quickly develop when wind directions change.