Fire, road and water safety officials gathered at Banna Strand in County Kerry this morning to launch this year’s ‘Amber Thursday’ ahead of the August bank holiday weekend, which is traditionally a busy time for such services.
After another tragic weekend on the roads resulting in multiple fatalities in separate incidents, and with people taking to the water, having barbeques or campfires etc, ‘Amber Thursday’ is an inter-agency joint initiative to raise awareness of the risks and dangers on the road, in water or with fire. This year, there is a heavy focus on road safety.
Wicklow County Council’s Road Safety Officer Linda Healy said: “Time and time again we hear of another tragic incident which has taken a life on our roads. Every person who uses the road needs to be aware of the risks all around them. While one person might be doing everything safe and correct, the actions of another road user could change all of that in an instant.
We are appealing to motorists in particular to always drive safe and sober, drive within the speed limits and for everyone traveling in a vehicle to wear a seatbelt. Motorists also need to look out for vulnerable road users and take breaks on long journeys to avoid driver fatigue.”
Garda Inspector Michelle Byrne of the Wicklow Roads Policing Unit said said: “The August bank holiday weekend historically is one of the busiest weekends of the year. All members of An Garda Siochana attached to the Wicklow Division are committed to working with our sister organisations to ensure the safety of the public we serve.”
Water rescuers are also expected to have a busy weekend as people take to water activities. Last year, the Irish Coast Guard coordinated responses to 2,788 incidents, which was the second highest number in 5 years, and August was their busiest month with a total of 391 incidents. Lifeguards are on duty in designated areas. Swimmers are reminded to swim within their depth, not to use inflatable toys on open water and always swim at a lifeguarded beach. Swimming inland in lakes and rivers is also proven to be particularly high risk in terms of water safety.
The bank holiday weekend can also be a busy time for firefighters who are called to various incidents including barbeque or domestic fires and road traffic collisions. To avoid injuries, or damage to property, never use disposable BBQs in the countryside, never BBQ on a balcony and ensure the barbecue is on a flat site, well away from the house/apartment, trees or shrubs. Never leave the barbecue unattended and keep a bucket of water or sand nearby for emergencies.
People are being particularly reminded to not light fires in or near forests, recreational areas or other amenities and motorists are asked to park responsibly and not to block emergency access routes.
ENDS