Council host Open Water Swim Safety Information Session at Bawnacre Centre

Fermanagh and Omagh Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) in association with Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, recently hosted an open water swimming information event at the Bawnacre Centre, Irvinestown which focused on promoting water safety messages for open water swimmers.

Open water swimming can take place anywhere outside a traditional swimming pool environment and with the significant expanse of water across the district, it is becoming increasingly popular with all age groups. The event was supported by contributions from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), Waterways Ireland, Swim Ulster and the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) providing useful and pertinent advice on preparation and managing risks of open water swimming with practical tips and solutions. A first aid demonstration was also delivered.

Both Fermanagh and Omagh PCSP and the district Council felt, given the increased interest in Open Water swimming that it would be prudent to host such an information evening, particularly coming into the summer months, to equip swimmers and those with an interest within open water swimming with relevant safety messages and knowledge.

Speaking about the information session, Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Cllr Errol Thompson said;

“With the onset of summer and better weather, it was, I believe, an opportune time to host such an event. The Fermanagh and Omagh district has a wonderful natural environment and much of this is based around our stunning waterways.

Lough Erne is a significant part of our natural heritage and attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, many of whom use the wide-open expanse of the lough for boating, swimming or other water-based activities.

However, with that comes the responsibility for all users of ensuring that all advice with regard to safety for open water activities is adhered to and the information provided in the session was of great benefit to those in attendance.”

Speaking at the event, Chairperson of Fermanagh and Omagh Policing Safety and Community Partnership, Cllr Keith Elliott said;

“The PCSP is delighted to support this initiative as part of its community safety message. Our waterways are a magnificent recreational resource attracting a variety of users all of whom share the need to use the water safely. Open water swimming is growing in popularity, and it is important that swimmers are equipped with the skills and knowledge to participate in this activity in a safe way”.

In response to the information event, additional training including First Aid and coached sessions with Swim Ulster will be organised and facilitated locally. For further information regarding future sessions and training, please contact Chris Elliott, Leisure Recreation and Sports Officer by email chris.elliott@fermanaghomagh.com or 0300 303 1777.