Amber Thursday calls for caution ahead of August Bank Holiday fun

Every year, the August bank holiday weekend brings tragedies and sorrow to many, either by incidents of drowning, road carnage, fire burns or smoke inhalation. 

Planning for a safe and enjoyable weekend is easy, and spotting dangers, avoiding risks, and staying safe is just as easy. As many people enjoy the summer break, and as many others plan for the August Bank Holiday weekend, safety officers are urging people to be mindful of the risks and dangers associated with fire, road and water-based activities such as barbeques, swimming or driving.  

Amber Thursday takes place on Thursday 3rd August, ahead of the bank holiday weekend. It’s a joint initiative between road safety, water safety and fire safety officials from Local Authorities, Fire Services and Water Safety Ireland to raise awareness about the risks and dangers associated with activities on the water, at campfires and barbeques or while using the roads. 

The August bank holiday weekend is by far one of the busiest weekends of the year. People tend to flock to a beach, a river or pool, others take to the roads while some go camping or fire up the barbeque either in the garden or away from the home. All these activities bring with them, an important element of safety and awareness. 

Mayor of Fingal, Cllr. Adrian Henchy said: “It is important to appreciate the valuable time and courageous efforts of our emergency services, not by imposing additional burdens upon them, but by looking after ourselves and those around us. By staying safe, we are not only protecting ourselves, but also sparing invaluable emergency service resources for those who need them the most. Let's carry the mantle of prevention as our first line of defense.” 

Deputy Chief Executive of Fingal County Council, Ethna Felton added: “As we set forth on our Bank Holiday plans, let us not forget that our safety and the well-being of those around us must always come first. 'Amber Thursday' is an opportunity to make a conscious effort towards prioritizing safety during this bustling weekend, and a chance to lay down a marker for all future celebrations. In the spirit of unity and community, let us watch over one another, so the joy of the holiday weekend are not overshadowed by avoidable accidents.” 

Road Safety 

Some of the main factors associated with killer behaviours on the roads are speeding, drink or drug driving, the non-wearing of a seatbelt and driver fatigue. These actions can lead to a collision, resulting in serious or fatal injuries by road users. A single road death can affect a whole community, leaving a lasting effect for many years. 

Andrew Nolan, Senior Executive Engineer and Road Safety Officer of Fingal County Council said: “Our Emergency Services are constantly in demand, and as this busy weekend approaches, we’re appealing to the public to obey public health and safety guidelines. By adhering to these measures, we can collectively lessen the strain on these vital services and ensure the safety of everyone. Your cooperation not only aids those who are tirelessly working to protect us but contributes to the well-being of our entire community." 

Water Safety 

People are advised to swim at designated bathing areas where lifeguards are on duty. If there are no designated bathing areas near you, then swim at known safe traditional bathing areas where there are ringbuoys in place. Always ensure that the ringbuoy is in its yellow box before entering the water. 

When cold water makes contact with your skin, the cold shock response causes an immediate loss of breathing control, possible dizziness and panic. Even when the water is calm and you know how to swim, the shock of cold water can dramatically increase the risk of sudden drowning. For those who survive this, but are unable to get out of the water, progressive body cooling leads to hypothermia and muscle cooling, making swimming more difficult or impossible. 

Fire Safety 

The fire service is called out to deal with various types of incidents throughout the year other than just fires, traffic incidents and rescues. The August bank holiday weekend can be a busy time for the service as calls to deal with wildfires, forest fires, outdoor fires, barbeque or domestic fires can increase during this period.  

Members of the public should be aware of the risks from fires occurring outdoors, in the home or in the garden. People don’t always realise how quickly a fire can spread or a how quick a small incident can escalate into a larger one if it’s not managed safely. The public is also reminded not to barbeque or light a campfire in parks, wildland areas or in areas close to vegetation or trees and be mindful not to discard any cigarette butts on the ground. 

Further information can be found at amberthursday.ie.

Photo Captions:

1: Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Adrian Henchy with members of the Irish Coast Guard.

2: Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Adrian Henchy with a member of the Dublin Fire Brigade.

3: David Storey, Director Of Services for Environment, Climate Change & Active Travel at Fingal County Council, Andrew Nolan, Senior Executive Engineer for Environment, Climate Change & Active Travel and John Hartnett, Senior Staff Officer for Environment, Climate Change & Active Travel with members of An Garda Síochána.