THE tragic deaths of four people in York’s rivers earlier this year provided harrowing proof of just how dangerous the Ouse and Foss can be. Yet a report from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) still makes for shocking reading.
The death rate in York’s rivers over recent years has been about twice the national average, the report says – with three deaths a year on average since 2009.
The RoSPA report highlighted several key risk factors, including frequent ‘slip and trip’ dangers close to the rivers, and river banks which make it difficult for those who fall or jump in to get out again.
The city council has now begun work on improvements. New safety equipment is promised along the river banks, and repairs are under way along New Walk, Museum Gardens Esplanade and Terry Avenue. Fencing is being bought for near Navigation Road, and will be upgraded near Blue Bridge and at Wellington Row and Queen’s Staith.
These are all welcome measures. Let’s hope that, in combination with river safety campaigns – including our own Take Care campaign – they have an impact, so that we can put an end to the tragic toll of deaths in our rivers.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here