Our role
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.
Our partners
We work closely with the following organisations:
- London Ambulance Service
- Maritime and Coastguard Agency
- Port of London Authority
- Royal Life Saving Society
- The RNLI
- Transport for London
Key documents
The following documents play a key role in directing our work:
- UK Drowning Prevention Strategy
- Tidal Thames Water Safety Forum’s Drowning Prevention Strategy
- A Safer Riverside – guidance for development alongside and on the tidal River Thames
Our projects
Public rescue equipment
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.
Think before you drink
45% of those aged 16-25 who lost their lives to accidental drowning had alcohol and/or drugs in their bloodstream.