Along with the Royal National Lifesaving Institution (RNLI), we have a shared responsibility for safety on the River Thames. Our two fire boats stationed on the river support us in this.
We also respond to inland water incidents, for example on lakes, reservoirs and canals. We have specialist water rescue units across London for this work.
We work closely with the following organisations:
The following documents play a key role in directing our work:
We work with local authorities and landowners to promote the installation of throwline boards in waterside areas where there is a risk of drowning.
The board contains a throwbag / throwline and instructions on how to use it to rescue a person who is in difficulty in the water.
We’re working with the RNLI to deliver water safety training to staff working at waterside venues such as pubs, bars and restaurants. This training includes how to use a throwline.
45% of those aged 16-25 who lost their lives to accidental drowning had alcohol and/or drugs in their bloodstream.
We work with suicide prevention organisations to develop a sensitive and effective approach to tackling the issues of accidental and self-harm drowning on the Thames.
If you or someone you know is in crisis or struggling to cope or worried about someone with suicidal thoughts, support is available from organisations including Samaritans or Mind.