Lifesaving equipment installed at Loch Ness waterside beauty spots by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service
Emergency rescue equipment that could help to save lives has been installed at Loch Ness beauty spots.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) unveiled the new ‘Portsafe’ boards and throwlines at two popular shoreside spots this week.
The boards were installed at Dores Beach and Foyers with the aim of enhancing public safety and allowing for potentially lifesaving interventions to be made in an emergency.
SFRS Watch Commander (WC) James Monaghan and Community Safety Advocate Mark Fowler were instrumental in organising the installations – which are part of a broader initiative being rolled out across the Highland area.
Watch Commander Monaghan said: “This equipment will allow members of the public to make crucial interventions in the event of an emergency, while we or our partners are on route.
“Every second counts in a water emergency and this throw line means that someone on the shore can attempt to assist someone in trouble without putting themselves in danger.
“We would always say to the public – if you see someone in distress, never get into the water yourself to attempt a rescue. Always dial 999 and look for nearby rescue aids – just like this new Portsafe board.”
Designed to deter vandalism and theft, the Portsafe boards feature a coded padlock system that secures a water rescue throwline within the safe. In an emergency, the public can call 999 and provide their location to receive a code from SFRS operations control, unlocking the board and accessing the rescue equipment.
A similar board was installed at Loch Morlich in the Cairngorms last year.
WC Monaghan added: "Unfortunately, we do encounter instances of theft or misuse of water rescue equipment across Scotland. This type of installation will make sure that this equipment remains available for public use, and available to help save lives.”
The new initiative comes after recent data showed that the number of drownings in Scotland increased in 2023. The figures reveal 47 accidental water-related fatalities, with 57 per cent occurring in inland waters such as lochs and rivers.
Drowning Prevention Week takes place annually and runs from June 15 to 22, aiming to prevent drownings through education on the Water Safety Code, particularly ahead of the school summer holidays when children spend more time outdoors.
For more information on how to get involved in Drowning Prevention Week, visit the Royal Life Saving Society UK's website at rlss.org.uk
For more information from SFRS on water safety, visit the water safety section of SFRS’ website, firescotland.gov.uk.
