Shrewsbury mum's mission to save lives on the River Severn this Christmas
A mum who lost her husband to drowning will be supporting river patrols in Shrewsbury this Christmas, as part of the Home and Dry Campaign.
The patrols will be led by West Mercia Search and Rescue, with support from West Mercia Police and Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service.
Kirsty Walsh lost her husband Shane, in 2017, after he died following a night out in the town. She has continued to campaign to raise awareness of water safety, and has given up her weekends to join patrols every Christmas, encouraging people to enjoy their nights out safely and get home to their loved ones.
As an ambassador for West Mercia Search and Rescue, the charity who helped recover Shane’s body from the River Severn, Kirsty will join volunteers every Friday and Saturday evening throughout December.
The volunteers will create a visible presence in the town, engaging with the public to remind them of the importance of sticking together and steering clear of the water, as well as being on hand to assist should anyone come into danger.
They will be supported by police, as part of Op Presence, to ensure everyone can enjoy a safe and festive night out.
Kirsty Walsh said: “Since loosing Shane, I have been passionate about creating a legacy for our children, and raising awareness in his memory. I am proud to be part of the Home and Dry campaign, and will keep pushing in order to raise awareness and hopefully prevent future tragedies.”
West Mercia Search and Rescue Volunteer Mark Eccleston said: “If we can encourage just one person to take extra steps to keep themselves safe, these patrols have been worthwhile. Too many lives are lost too drowning each year and we see the immeasurable impact these have on the families left behind.”
Inspector Ingrid Tozer from West Mercia Police said: “We want everyone to have a safe and happy Christmas, and we are proud to support Kirsty and the other volunteers from West Mercia Search and Rescue who devote their own time freely to keep others safe. West Mercia Police will continue to help support the Home and Dry campaign, and work to raise awareness and educate people of the dangers in order to prevent devastating consequences. Remember if your mate is on the beer- steer well clear”
Cathy Williams, Prevention Officer for Road and Water Safety said: “Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service is proud to work alongside our partners and Kirsty to raise awareness of the dangers around water, especially during the festive season. We’re asking everyone to be water-aware and follow these life-saving tips:
- Keep away from the water’s edge – it’s easy to slip, particularly at night or after drinking.
- Avoid walking home along the river – choose a safer route and never let friends walk near the water.
- If you need the loo, steer clear of the river – alcohol and darkness make falling in far more likely.
If you see someone in trouble in the water:
- Call 999 immediately.
- Tell them to float on their back and control their breathing.
- Throw something that floats, like a life ring or throwline – never enter the water yourself.”
The Home and Dry campaign is backed by a number of agencies, alongside the families of those affected by drowning, to help promote water safety and prevent further tragedies. Collectively the campaign aims to encourage people to be aware of the dangers, and to develop and share educational resources to ensure water safety is embedded in people’s minds from an early age.
