Danger Signs highlight risks of swimming in city harbour
ACAMPAIGN to promote safety in Bristol’s harbourside has been launched, raising awareness about the dangers the water can pose to swimmers.
Bristol City Council joined forces with the city’s police and fire services and Bristol City Centre Bid, after several incidents of people getting into trouble in the water this summer.
A series of signs have been installed around the area to prevent the public from entering the water and to highlight the risks involved.
Jon James, head of service for natural and marine environment at Bristol City Council, said: “This summer has seen an increase of people entering the water.
“On a number of occasions
people have been under the influence of alcohol or other substances, which significantly increases the risk of injury or death.
“Swimming in the harbour is not permitted as it is in breach of the harbour bylaws and can result in prosecution.
Mr James added: “Bristol Harbour is a working docks and swimming in the harbour is an irresponsible act.
“This behaviour puts at risks the lives of others who are working or travelling on the water or anyone who is involved in rescuing someone.”
Wild swimming campaigners have this summer urged the council to introduce swimming areas in the harbour.
Bristol City Council is currently exploring ideas to introduce safe, managed and segregated swimming to the harbour in the future, as part of the upcoming Western Harbour development.
But until new facilities are in place, entering the water without prior consent from the Harbour Master remains a dangerous activity that carries a significant risk of harm.
Mr James added: “My advice to people is; please do not swim in the harbour, not only for your own sake but for the sake of others too.”
Coldwater shock is highlighted as one of the main risks in the campaign, as well as poor water quality, a lack of
Bristol Harbour is a working docks and swimming in the harbour is an irresponsible act. This behaviour puts at risks the lives of others who are working or travelling on the water or anyone who is involved in rescuing someone
Jon James of Bristol City Council
Bristol Harbour ... features a deep sluice, which removes its silt, creating a powerful undertow as the silt is sucked out of the harbour and into the river. These undertows create deadly submerged currents.
Harry Awramenko, Avon Fire and Rescue’s group manager
exit points, dangerous currents and submerged objects.
Harry Awramenko, Avon Fire and Rescue’s group manager, explained: “The harbour also features a deep sluice, which removes its silt, creating a powerful undertow as the silt is sucked out of the harbour and into the river.
“These undertows create deadly submerged currents.
“The variable depth of the harbour is also a major risk factor, as it can vary by up to 29 feet depending on time and tide.
“The most recent incidents were tragic, and we are hoping that increased awareness of the risks of the harbour will help to keep people safe as we head into the autumn months.”
Bristol’s Harbour dates back to the early 19th century and is one of the city’s most popular destinations for tourists and locals.
Keith Rundle, director of Bids for Visit West said: “It’s draw as a leisure destination means there is an increased risk of incidents in the water at night.
“We all want people to be safe and this campaign is all about educating people about the hidden risks posed by swimming in the harbour, and to remind everyone of the need to take care in the dark and especially during or after a night out.”