THE Loch Lomond Rescue Boat has had a busy start to the new activity season on Loch Lomond – and the crew has urged the public to take a ‘safety first’ approach whenever they’re using the loch.

The crew have had six call-outs in the last four weeks and are bracing themselves for what they say could be one of their busiest years yet.

The club said in a social media statement: “Four calls for assistance were received due to mechanical issues, resulting in the vessels and occupants requiring tows to safety.

“One call was to assist after a boat’s propeller became snagged on a rope, and the final [call] was a jet ski that had ran out of fuel and the ski being found abandoned on the shore at Loch Lomond Golf Club.

“Thankfully all calls had positive outcomes.

“This year could prove to be one of our busiest yet in terms of callouts and the many safety covers we undertake all year round.

“We would encourage anyone using the loch and the surrounding areas to always take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety.

“Wear lifejackets, check weather reports, inform someone of where you are going and when you expect to return, take a fully charged mobile phone and always dress accordingly.”