Local Agencies Deliver Water Safety Initiative

On Wednesday 3 July, local agencies came together in Castleward to deliver a Water Safety initiative to young people from Ardglass, Killough and Strangford. This multi-agency approach was aimed at highlighting the dangers associated with water activities and to promote safe practices.

The event was organised by the Council’s Downpatrick District Electoral Area Forum (DEA), Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) in collaboration with the Downpatrick Neighbourhood Policing Team, the NI Coastguard, Downpatrick NIFRS - the Special Rescue Unit and the Education Authority.

In the last 5 years, 96% of accidental drownings have occurred at open water sites, either inland or on the coast. Many of these incidents are due to a lack of knowledge and understanding of open water safety. The three coastal areas have seen a noticeable increase in young people engaging in water activities such as pier jumping and paddleboarding.

At the event the NIFRS and the NI Coastguard provided vital information on the basic principles of open water swimming and recognising hazards, particularly rip currents. The young people also learned how to use safety equipment and how to support and seek help if a friend gets into danger. Participants also enjoyed canoeing and rock climbing provided by Clearsky and experienced the Godmotex Gaming Bus.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Downpatrick DEA Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell said, “Living on the Lecale Coast offers fantastic opportunities for young people to enjoy our waters. This initiative has provided valuable information on staying safe and it was great to see young people learning through hands on experiences. Canoeing on Strangford Lough and participating in an interactive rescue demonstration by the NIFRS’s Specialist Rescue Team are invaluable educational opportunities. These initiatives effectively educate through interactive learning and I hope to see more in the future.”

Policing and Community Safety Partnership Chairperson, Councillor Terry Andrews said, “This engagement work provides a platform for young people to get to know their local Neighbourhood Policing Team and to build upon mutual trust and respect. Additionally the YMCA Lisburn provided insightful information into the dangers of vaping and drugs.”