THE catalogue of deaths on York’s rivers is truly dreadful and increasing rescue boat patrols is a welcome response.

But there is much more that needs doing to improve safety and I welcome Rachael Maskell’s call for organisations to work together to draw up further life-saving measures.

This group must include the Canal and River Trust, which not only manages the navigation on the Ouse, but also has vast experience in waterside safety.

Both the Ouse and Foss need more well-designed railings in honeypot sites, more escape ladders and additional life belts.

But, most importantly, there is an urgent need for grab chains to be installed along the all accessible waterway walls of the Ouse and Foss.

Grab chains give people something to hold on to while they cry out for help and are a simple, but crucial, life-saver.

I do hope these additional measures are installed before the summer visitors arrive.

Chris Rainger,

Grange Street, York

Number of river deaths is tragic

THE number of deaths, by whatever means, in the rivers of York, is tragic.

There is a lot of talk about educating people of the dangers of the rivers and water in general. Surely they were educated on such matters when they were children?

Adults should know the dangers. Anyone should realise if they fall in a river, anywhere, the chance of getting out safely is minimal.

There used to be the occasional accident of falling in, or jumping off the bridges, but these deaths have now reached epidemic proportions - five in three weeks.

It has to stop but putting fences all along the riverside isn’t the answer. The riverside has hardly altered over the years so why, suddenly, has it become an issue?

This is not to take away from the tragedy or the dreadful anguish suffered by the families of those who have perished in the water, but the river banks have hardly altered over the years.

The rivers have flowed merrily on their way intending harm to no-one. Notices telling people they are in danger of drowning if they go into the rivers and to keep away from the edge should be enough to give fair warning.

Janet Kitchen-Cooper,

Ashley Park Road, York