Sheriff urges tighter safety rules for youth riverboarding and canyoning after fatal drownings

A fatal accident inquiry examined the drownings of Kayden Walker, a 12-year-old, and Ruaridh Stevenson, 39, who died while assisting clients in water activities at Dollar Glen, Stirling. Sheriff Keith O’Mahony concluded that both deaths could have been avoided with better risk management and recommended that the Health and Safety Executive, together with the Adventure Activities Licensing Authority, assess whether commercial riverboarding for those under 18 should be regulated under the licensing scheme.

Pending that review, he suggested the HSE issue specific guidance to providers and commissioners, emphasizing rigorous site-specific risk assessments. For canyoning, he advised the HSE and the UK Canyoning Association to develop guidance on operational water-level limits and rescue equipment such as reach poles or throw lines. The sheriff’s findings highlight the need for stronger safety controls in adventure sports, and the Crown Office’s Debbie Carroll expressed condolences to the victims’ families. Comments from the HSE and the UK Canyoning Association were sought.