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Recent reports of ringbuoys damaged, stolen or vadalised is a worring deveopment (01 Aug 2008)
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| Recent reports of ringbuoys damaged, stolen or vadalised is a worring
situation in Kildare. There is a hugh tragedy that can result from
Ringbuoy vandalism. Tragically, 170 people drown nationwide every year.
The absence of a Ringbuoy due to theft or vandalism can have tragic
consequences when a member of the public needs to effect a rescue to a
person in distress in water.
Regrettably,incidents of malicious damage and theft to these lifesaving
appliances and there is a continuing need for the public to be made aware
that damage or theft of such ringbuoys or the attached rope, could result
in the loss of life.
The key objective is to make people aware of the potentially tragic
consequences of missing ringbuoys for the busy summer season ahead.
The purpose of these Ringbuoys is twofold: firstly they act as a constant
visible reminder of the danger that the aquatic environment represents,
and they are intended to be used to effect a rescue of any person who may
find themselves in distress.
Some irresponsible members of the public vandalise these lifesaving
appliances, particularly late-night revellers under the influence of
alcohol.
Too frequency regular checks particularly in urban areas discover that
they are either missing or have been vandalised. A high financial cost of
this vandalism is borne by the ratepayers and taxpayers, but the serious
risk is to human life caused by the deliberate damage to this equipment is
of particular concern.
Kildare Water Safety appeals to the public to assist in maintaining these
vitally important lifesaving appliances in good condition at all times.
Any person seen tampering or in possession with these lifebelts should be
reported to the Local Authorities,ie Kildare Co. Co and/or the Garda. The
Gardai have been successful in convicting members of the public for
interfering with and damaging lifesaving equipment and Courts have fined
members of the public in the recent past, which has helped to further
reduce this damage and interference.
Kildare Water Safety strongly condems the interferes, in such vitial
rescue equipment and ask public to remember its your lifesaving
equipment , it may save your life.
Remember to effect a rescue with a ringbuoy the rescuer should aim the
ringbuoy to fall a short distance beyond the casualty so that it can be
retrieved towards them. When the casualty has a firm grip they are
retrieved slowly to the bank or edge. It is essential that the rescuer
reassures and instructs the casualty throughout the rescue to ensure their
co-operation and confidence.
Further information regarding Water Safety and Water Safety classes can be
found on www.kildarewatersafety.ie or from Irish Water Safety www.iws.ie
or Lo-Call: (within Ireland): 1890 420 202 (24 Hrs)
Contact: Leo
Phone: 086 8146261
Email: info@kildarewatersafety.ie
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