'Don't drink and drown' summer water safety message
A water safety publicity campaign will hit the pubs and clubs of
Perth this summer, carrying the message that alcohol and water
don't mix.
"Don't Drink and Drown" posters and beer mats have been designed by
Perth College art, design and media students, warning people of the
dangers of entering rivers and waterways after drinking.
Alcohol consumption is often a contributory factor to incidents in
and around waterways in Perth and Kinross during the summer, and
the campaign aims to raise awareness that messing around in the
water after a few drinks could have serious consequences.
The annual publicity campaign is a partnership between the
Safe-Tay charity, Perth and Kinross Community Safety Partnership,
Perth College and Perth Safer Cities Initiative.
Street pastors trained to help in emergency situations
This year, Perth's Street Pastors have been given training in
the use of the rescue throw lines situated along the River Tay in
Perth city centre.
Mike Archibald, Perth Street Pastor co-ordinator, said: "It is
important that we know how to use the throw lines, as we patrol the
area along the river in the city centre. This knowledge will be
vital should we be called upon to use the life saving
equipment."
Community Safety Partnership Convenor, Councillor Willie Robertson,
said: "Making people aware of the dangers of the River Tay is very
important. The river looks calm and inviting on hot summer days,
and often at night. However, no matter how calm and still the water
looks, it can be very treacherous, especially to someone who has
been drinking alcohol."
Reminder of dangers of drinking alcohol around waterways
Lisa Stuart of the Safe-Tay Charity, added: "The Don't Drink and
Drown campaign is now in its fifth year, and we are delighted yet
again to have gained the support of the local community and local
services. We feel that this campaign is a fantastic way to
highlight the dangers of drinking alcohol within, near or around
waterways.
"Swimming in a river or waterway after drinking is a lethal
combination. Alcohol distorts your perception of risk and your own
abilities. Cold water can also cause cramp and hypothermia.
"We would also like to urge people not to damage water safety
equipment that is placed along the Tay in Perth. In the past we
have heard of incidents of lifebelts being vandalised, and
throw-lines being removed and thrown in the river. This kind of
vandalism is mindless and irresponsible, and is putting people at
risk of drowning.
"The partnership would like to thank the Perth College students for
designing the posters that shall be distributed along which shall
be distributed with the beer mats, which have been funded by
'Awards for All'."
This year Safe-Tay will also be working with Perth & Kinross
Council on the printing of a 'Be water wise' message on parking
tickets.
For further information relating to Safe-Tay please visit the link
on the right of this page.
