Council installs new water safety equipment

Torridge District Council has announced the installation of new throw lines across the district to enhance water safety. 

This initiative comes after a thorough review of existing water safety equipment, which previously included lifebuoys.

The newly installed throw lines are located in bright orange boxes at several popular spots, such as slipways and the viewspot at Kenwith Reservoir. 

These throw lines aim to provide quick assistance to individuals who may find themselves in distress in the water. The council highlighted several advantages of the throw lines compared to traditional lifebuoys:

• Quick Deployment: In emergencies, every second counts. Throw bags enable rapid deployment of a line to someone in trouble.

• High Visibility: The bright colour of the throw lines ensures they can be easily seen in the water, aiding both rescuers and those needing assistance.
• Versatility: These throw lines can be effectively used in various water environments and are commonly employed by lifeguards, kayakers, boaters, and rescue professionals.
• Ease of Use: The throw lines and bags are designed to be lightweight and user-friendly, allowing for quick recoiling and storage after use.

In the event of an emergency, Devon & Somerset Fire and Rescue Services advise against entering the water for a rescue. Instead, they recommend the following steps:

• Call 999 immediately.
• Do not jump into the water.
• Retrieve the throwline.
• Hold the end of the line in one hand and the bag in the other.
• Throw the bag so it lands beyond the person in distress.
• Instruct the individual to grab hold of the line, not the bag.
• Once they have a firm grip, stabilise yourself and pull them to safety.
• Wait for assistance before attempting to lift anyone from the water.

Councillor Philip Hackett, Lead Member for Public Health & Community Safety, said: “We have some beautiful water areas in Torridge, and we want to ensure that our residents can enjoy them while they are out and about.  The new throw lines will be a valuable addition at some of our most popular sites but, more importantly, we’d ask people to please stay alert and take care by the water so that everyone can go home safe and dry at the end of the day.”