The Devonport City Council, with the support of the Australian National Sportfishing Association (ANSA), has taken a major step towards safeguarding the lives of all water users, by installing two Angel Rings at popular locations around the city.
Angel Rings are life buoys which can be thrown to anyone who unfortunately finds themselves in difficulty in the water, and greatly increases the chance of survival until rescue.
One ring is located adjacent to the Bluff Lighthouse car park and the other is next to the path adjacent to a popular rock fishing area about 250 m north of the old sound shell at the Bluff.
The Mayor, Cr Annette Rockliff, said water activities were commonplace in the city, particularly during the summer months, and the rings had the potential to greatly assist anyone who may unfortunately find themselves in difficulty in the water.
“The rings certainly have the potential to save lives and while we obviously hope they will never be needed their presence is an important safety measure,” she said.
“There have been incidents previously where people have lost their lives in our waters and any step Council can take to lessen the possibility of this happening must be seen as a positive.”
ANSA Safety Officer Stan Konstantaras said prevention was the best cure and there were many steps rock fishers could take to ensure their safety.
Such tips can be found at www.safefishing.com.au
Council worked with the Devonport Surf Life Saving Club to determine the most appropriate locations for the rings.
DSLSC vice president Luke Emmett welcomed the Council and ANSA initiative.
“These are great lifesaving aids which can be used to assist someone who ends up in the water until we, or other parties, can be contacted to provide assistance,” Mr Emmett said.
Mr Emmett encouraged anyone who used a ring to also call 000 for assistance.
Caption: Mayor Annette Rockliff and Devonport Surf Life Saving Club vice president Luke Emmett inspect one of the rings.
