Southampton City Council Unveils New Life-Saving Equipment at Riverside Park

Visitors to Riverside Park will now benefit from enhanced safety measures as Southampton City Council installs 14 new Water Rescue Cabinets along the park’s waterside path. The initiative is part of the council’s wider commitment to improving public safety and reducing the risk of drowning in the city’s most popular outdoor spaces.

Each cabinet contains a throw line, a piece of equipment designed to help individuals rescue someone struggling in the water. To prevent vandalism and ensure the equipment is used appropriately, the cabinets remain locked and can only be accessed by calling 999 and providing the three-word location code printed on the cabinet. Emergency responders will then issue the combination to open the cabinet and dispatch services to the scene immediately.

In addition to the secure access system, each cabinet is equipped with a flashing light to aid visibility in low-light conditions. Once opened, the light remains on, helping guide emergency responders to the exact location of the incident.

Councillor John Savage, Cabinet Member for Environment & Net Zero at Southampton City Council, said:

“Residents and visitors alike love Riverside Park, so we want to ensure that if someone does get into difficulties when they’re in the water, passers-by can assist them while they wait for an ambulance to arrive. Southampton City Council is pleased to be able to fund this life-saving equipment, as it will help to reduce the risk of bathers and swimmers coming to harm.”

The project has been welcomed by emergency services. Station Manager Pete McClemont, from Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, highlighted the importance of safety near water:

“We are fortunate to live in an area with a large coastline and many other waterways, but it’s important that whilst enjoying these spaces, we do so safely. Riverside Park is one of our most popular waterside spots, so it is brilliant to see these lifesaving tools installed here.”

“With this emergency kit kept safe, it will ensure that it is in working condition and ready for whenever rescuers need to help an individual in danger in the water, prior to the arrival of the emergency services.”

Riverside Park is a 32-hectare site along the River Itchen and is one of Southampton’s 11 Green Flag-awarded parks. It features extensive sports and recreational facilities, including football and cricket pitches, tennis courts, a skate park, and three play areas. The park also holds international recognition as a vital habitat for a variety of wildlife, including salmon, otters, kingfishers, and dragonflies.

The installation of the Water Rescue Cabinets marks another step forward in the council’s mission to create a safer city for all.