AN INITIATIVE aimed at Fife’s coastal towns has seen over 500 people receive water safety training to assist someone who is drowning.
The Waterside Responder Scheme was created by the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) aims to attribute basic skills and knowledge to those close to open water. This includes hospitality and security staff as well as coastal residents.
Businesses have been targeted in the scheme which gives free training sessions on how to safely assist in the rescue of someone drowning before emergency services arrive.
David Corstorphine, local water safety officer, said: “The main aim of this has been to give shop, restaurant and bar workers the confidence to safely intervene in the event of an emergency if appropriate, and I’ve been gobsmacked by how brilliant it has been here in the East Neuk.”
He added: “It’s fantastic to see the enthusiasm from local businesses. Their willingness to learn and apply these life-saving skills makes a real difference in improving water safety within the community.”
Local businesses have been supplied with throw bags containing rope, training manuals and reference cards. The training sessions have been carried out in leisure centres across Fife.
43 businesses have taken part in the initiative, spanning from University of St Andrews Wild Swimmers to fish and chip shops in Anstruther.
Corstorphine continued: “Staff are trained to get the necessary information and to contact the coastguard, before taking any appropriate action.
“We’re keen to ensure that businesses and groups are fist of all getting the professionals involved and so saving valuable minutes before offering any help they can, in a way that does not put themselves at risk.”
Fife Council has supported the campaign and are providing funding for the throw bags.
Communities and leisure spokesperson councillor Linda Erskine said: “Our coastline and waterways are some of Fife’s greatest assets, enjoyed by residents and visitors all year round, but they also bring real risks.
“This initiative is a fantastic example of communities coming together to look out for one another and respond quickly in an emergency.
“By giving local people and businesses the skills, knowledge and equipment they need, we’re helping to make our coastal areas safer while building confidence and resilience within our communities.”
Businesses and organisations are encouraged to contact Anstruther RNLI to find out more.
Councillor Erskine added: “I’d encourage any organisation near the water to get involved and play their part in helping to save lives.”
