Police and partners are reminding the public of the serious and potentially catastrophic consequences of interfering with life-saving water rescue equipment in Strabane and the surrounding areas.

Local police in Strabane, Community Rescue Service and Derry and Strabane Policing and Community Safety Partnership say the equipment, including throw lines, is there to help save lives.

Sergeant Johnston from Strabane Neighbourhood Policing Team said: "We’re into the summer months, and now is another timely opportunity to remind the public how important throw lines, lifebuoys and signage are.

"They’re strategically placed at various locations along our waterways, and they’re there for a reason. A throw line could be the difference between life and death for someone, who may be in difficulty in the water. This equipment has a very clear purpose, and that's to help save lives. It's not a toy, something to be played with.

Pictured from left are Darren Guy, Chair of Derry and Strabane PCSP; Peter Evans, Lead Community Safety Warden; Ivan Barr, Western District Commander, Community Rescue Service; Adam Donnell, PCSP Coordinator; and Constable Stafford, Strabane Neighbourhood Policing Team.

placeholder image — Pictured from left are Darren Guy, Chair of Derry and Strabane PCSP; Peter Evans, Lead Community Safety Warden; Ivan Barr, Western District Commander, Community Rescue Service; Adam Donnell, PCSP Coordinator; and Constable Stafford, Strabane Neighbourhood Policing Team.

“For a person to fall into the water and not have access to life-saving equipment does not bear thinking about.”

Ivan Barr, Western District Commander, Community Rescue Service says theft and destruction of life-saving equipment along local waterways, including Strabane canal, is ‘completely unacceptable’.

“These are not acts of harmless vandalism, they are direct attacks on the safety and wellbeing of our entire community,” says Ivan. “The canal is a place where people come to walk, reflect and find relief from the pressures of everyday life.

"By removing or damaging emergency equipment, those responsible are putting lives at risk. One day, someone in genuine need may be denied the chance of survival because the equipment they depend on has been stolen or destroyed.

“We urge those involved to stop and consider the devastating consequences of their actions. If a life is lost because this equipment is unavailable, the impact will be felt not only by the victim's family, but by the wider community, and by those responsible and their own families.

"Think before it's too late. Protect our community, don't endanger it."

Alderman Darren Guy, Chair of the Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP), said throw lines, lifebuoys and signage are placed along riverside walks ‘for one reason only – to save lives in an emergency’.

“When this equipment is vandalised, stolen or interfered with, it's not a victimless act,” says Alderman Guy. “It puts real people at real risk, and it comes at a cost to replace which could be better spent elsewhere in our community. On behalf of the PCSP, I would urge everyone to treat this equipment with the respect it deserves. If you witness damage taking place, or become aware of anyone involved in this behaviour, please report it to police on 101.

“We all have a part to play in keeping our waterways safe, and that means ensuring this equipment is there, ready to be used, the moment someone needs it.”

Sergeant Johnston added: “Our appeal is to everyone to respect and safeguard this vital life-saving equipment and help ensure they remain available for when they are needed.

“If you see damage or theft happening, or if you come across a line that has been damaged, please report it immediately on 101. A report can also be made using the online reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport. Always call 999 in an emergency.”