Authorities Issue Plea to Protect Vital Life-Saving Equipment

Community Calls for Action as Safety Gear Targeted by Vandalism

A stark warning has been issued by the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), the Community Rescue Service (CRS), and Derry City and Strabane District Council following a spate of vandalism incidents targeting life-saving water safety equipment along riverside walkways in Strabane and Newtownstewart.

Over the past two months, at least five separate incidents have been reported involving damage to essential emergency gear, including throw lines — particularly along the riverside path in Newtownstewart.

Throw Lines: A Lifeline, Not a Toy

Derg Neighbourhood Policing Team Sergeant Griffith has stressed the vital role this equipment plays:

“The throw lines, strategically placed at key points along the riverbank, could be the difference between life and death. This equipment is designed to help save lives — not for mischief or vandalism. The thought of someone falling into the river and finding the safety gear missing doesn’t bear thinking about.”

Sergeant Griffith has urged the public to report any instances of vandalism or suspicious behaviour to police by calling 101 or submitting an online report via the PSNI website at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport.

Community Rescue Service: “A Lifetime of Misery Could Follow Seconds of Vandalism”

Ivan Barr, District Commander for the Community Rescue Service, has echoed the warning, calling the repeated tampering “wanton destruction” that could cost lives:

“A few seconds of recklessness could lead to a lifetime of grief. This equipment could save your life or the life of someone close to you. We’re urging people of all ages to leave it untouched and to report any damaged or missing safety gear immediately.”

Council Urges Public to Safeguard Emergency Resources

Karen McFarland, Director of Health and Communities at Derry City and Strabane District Council, highlighted the wider consequences of this destructive behaviour:

“These resources, including lifebuoys, throw lines, and safety signage, are in place to offer urgent help in moments of real danger. Damaging or removing them not only puts lives at risk but also drains council resources in costly replacements. We urge everyone to treat this equipment with the seriousness it deserves.”