FEARS that Glaswegians are putting their lives at risk in open water during the warm weather has sparked a strong warning from rivermen.

Lockdown measures across the country were eased on Friday, as Scotland entered ‘Phase One’ – meaning more time outdoors and non-contact sports were allowed for the first time in weeks.

The reduction of measures came at the same time a mini-heatwave swept across much of Glasgow – but some fear actions taken in the warm weather are putting lives in danger, and subsequently putting the NHS at risk.

On Friday we told how a man was spotted floating down a South Side river in a rubber dinghy.

The footage shared online showed the man sailing down the River Cart from Battlefield to Shawlands – something lifeboat organisation Glasgow Humane Society (GHS) has described as a “highly dangerous” act.

They said: “We would discourage the use of inflatable pool toys in open water.

“These toys are designed for use in swimming pools and using them on rivers and other bodies of water has proven to be highly dangerous.

“Please save these for when your local swimming baths reopen.”

On the same day just before 4pm, emergency services were called to Victoria Bridge in Glasgow to rescue a man from the River Clyde.

His condition is unknown.

The GHS are now reminding public on the dangers of open water, even during warm weather.

A statement from the group added: “Many will see the easing on lockdown restrictions as a perfect opportunity to spend more time outdoors and in areas along Glasgow’s waterways. Glasgow’s rivers including the Clyde and the Cart are very dangerous bodies of water.

“We advise the public to refrain from entering waterways as although the air temperature is high, the water temperature is not.”

The group explained how ‘Cold Water Shock’ can set in when the water temperature is below 15C – adding that “the temperature of the Clyde is an estimated 10C”.

They continued: “Cold Water Shock can effect even the strongest of swimmers as it is the bodies natural reaction to cold water.

“Cold Water Shock can cause fatal drowning.

“We would ask that during this time that members of the public don’t put emergency services in danger by creating a spike in demand.”

It comes after First Minister Nicola Sturgeon urged people to be responsible as they enjoy the partial lifting of lockdown restrictions.

On Friday she warned the virus could surge again if safety precautions are not observed - telling people to avoid overcrowded areas.

Meanwhile Police Scotland chief constable Iain Livingstone added: “While the temptation may be to head straight for one of our beauty spots, we would ask people to use their judgment and avoid going to places which are normally busy during the good weather.”