Fire service 'show how to use water rescue equipment' to prevent drownings

Fire crews are today highlighting the use of 'throw lines' to help keep people safe as the weather warms up and more people walk along places like Exeter Quay.

Research shows around 40 per cent of people who drown in the UK had no intention of entering the water in the first place.

Six lifesaving throw line boards and reach poles have already been installed in Exeter Quay

At the time, Wayne Rawlins, Area Manager for Prevention at Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said: “In Devon and Somerset we have one of the largest areas of water in the country along with one of the highest rates of drowning incidents, so innovative water safety campaigns in collaboration with our partners is crucial in keeping our communities safe.

"We are proud to be part of this truly collaborative project, to help provide equipment for anyone who gets into difficulty in the water around Exeter Quay.

"We have water rescue specialist firefighters who will respond to an incident, but every second is vital if we are to prevent people from drowning, so this equipment will provide immediate support for anyone who ends up in the water.

Sergeant Andy Mulhern from Devon and Cornwall Police added: "These pieces of public rescue equipment are placed in strategic locations, for the public to access and use in an effort to secure a casualty, prior to the arrival of emergency services.

"The idea is that equipment negates the need for a member of the public to enter the water, placing themselves at risk and potentially adding to casualties in the water and the beauty of these pieces of public rescue equipment is that you are forced to alert the emergency services to access the kit, before using it.

"Water is cold, there are submerged objects, and the current is strong. Alcohol and water are a deadly combination, so avoid a route home near water after a night out. We hope they will save lives"

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