River safety in Shrewsbury – an update from Team Shrewsbury

Shropshire Council and its Team Shrewsbury partners, including West Mercia Police, Shrewsbury Town Council and Shropshire Fire & Rescue work together to monitor and improve river safety in Shrewsbury.

Extra barriers and lifebuoys have recently been installed, existing barriers have been improved, and the majority of the river in the town centre already has railings in place. Regular checks take place of safety equipment and towpaths, and provisions are in place to close barriers in times of flood. CCTV has recently been upgraded, is in operation and is closely monitored.

Street Pastors work to warn late-night drinkers of the dangers of being near the water and have themselves participated in several river rescues. They, and door staff from town centre public houses across the town, are throw-line trained by the fire service. The local Pubwatch group are very supportive of any measures to improve river safety in the town and have recently raised awareness through an extensive RNLI campaign.

West Mercia Police officers are also throw-line trained and carry water safety equipment. Officers have worked extensively with RNLI in Shrewsbury – more than any other inland force – to spread the ‘Respect the Water’ safety message.

Streetscene staff working for Shropshire Council’s contractor, Ringway – who routinely work near to the river – have also had throw-line training from Shropshire Fire and Rescue.

Ringway staff receiving throw-line training from Shropshire Fire & Rescue Service.

Shrewsbury Samaritans have recently provided additional signage to bridges across the town urging people considering harming themselves to call for help.

A sign placed on river bridges in Shrewsbury by the Samaritans.

River safety will remain as a priority for Team Shrewsbury, especially after yesterday’s tragic news.

About Team Shrewsbury

Team Shrewsbury is a partnership of Shropshire Council, Shrewsbury Town Council, West Mercia Police, Shropshire Fire & Rescue Service, Shrewsbury BID, Shrewsbury shopping centres, Shrewsbury Street Pastors, University Centre Shrewsbury, British Transport Police and the Safer Shrewsbury partnership.

Team Shrewsbury is about equipping and empowering local people to identify and solve local problems, ultimately making Shrewsbury a better place to live, work and play.