News / floating harbour
New signs around docks carry important safety message
Following several high-profile incidents and deaths involving issues surrounding water safety, new signs have been installed around the Floating Harbour to highlight risks around water.
The signs call attention to a series of potential dangers that may come from entering the docks, including temperature, water quality, lack of ladders and exit points, currents, and submerged objects.
Avon Fire & Rescue Service, Bristol City Centre BID, Bristol City Council and Avon & Somerset police have united to promote the new awareness campaign, together forming the Bristol Water Safety Partnership.
is needed now More than ever
Around some of the busiest destinations in the city, the posters aim to remind people of these hazards must be taken seriously – both day and night.
Speaking about some of these issues, Harry Awramenko from Avon Fire & Rescue said: “Coldwater shock is highlighted in the campaign as a critical factor in water safety, as well as the disorientation in the darkness meaning that it is very difficult to find ways out of the harbour.
“Water quality and hidden debris also makes it unsafe to swim. The harbour also features a deep sluice, which removes its silt, creating a powerful undertow as the silt is sucked out of the harbour and into the river.
“These undertows create deadly submerged currents. The variable depth of the harbour is also a major risk factor, as it can vary by up to 29 feet depending on time and tide.
“The most recent incidents were tragic, and we are hoping that increased awareness of the risks of the harbour will help to keep people safe as we head into the autumn months.”
Keith Rundle, director of BIDs for Visit West said: “Bristol’s harbour is fantastically popular and a magnet for Bristolians and tourists alike.
“Its draw as a leisure destination means there is an increased risk of incidents in the water at night.
“We all want people to be safe and this campaign is all about educating people about the hidden risks posed by swimming in the harbour, and to remind people everyone of the need to take care in the dark and especially during or after a night out.”
All photos courtesy of Plaster
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