Brand new life-saving water rescue equipment has been installed on the banks of the River Itchen in Southampton.
Southampton City Council have worked to deliver new waterside cabinets which contain throwlines secured and protected by a combination lock, which can be accessed in an emergency after 999 is dialled.
Throwlines are a length of rope thrown to someone in danger in the water, allowing them to hold on and pull themselves to safety.
Last year, St Mary’s crews joined Southampton Maritime Volunteer Service, the Royal National Lifeboat Service (RNLI) and the Coastguard at Riverside Park to demonstrate to spectators how to use a throw rope to reach a casualty struggling in the water or stuck in the mud.
Station Manager Pete McClemont, from St Mary’s Fire Station, said:
“We are fortunate to live in an area with a large coastline and many other waterways, but it’s important that whilst enjoying these spaces, we do so safely.
“Riverside Park is one of our most popular waterside spots, so it is brilliant to see these lifesaving tools installed here.
“With this emergency kit kept safe, it will ensure that it is in working condition ready for whenever rescuers need to help an individual in danger in the water, prior to the arrival of the emergency services.
“Our Control Room call handlers will be able to provide access and guidance on how to use the equipment correctly, whilst also mobilising local crews to the scene.”
Councillor John Savage, Cabinet Member for Environment & Net Zero at Southampton City Council, said:
“Residents and visitors alike love Riverside Park, so we want to ensure that if someone does get into difficulties when they’re in the water that passers by can assist them while they wait for an ambulance to arrive.
“Southampton City Council is pleased to be able to fund this life-saving equipment as this will help to reduce the risk of bathers and swimmers coming to harm.”
Statistics reveal 40% of people who accidentally drowned had no intention of entering the water. Slips trips and falls were often the cause of these accidents.
If somebody falls into the water, it’s vital to remember these steps:
- CALL 999 – never enter the water to attempt a rescue yourself.
- TELL – them not to panic and to try and float on their back.
- THROW – them something that floats and wait for the emergency services to arrive.
