Firefighters donate life-saving throwlines to Swinton Lock charity

Two water throwlines have been given to help with safety on the boats used for daytrips by the charity. 

Crew Manager Adam Dilkes, from South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue, has given safety talks at Swinton Lock for the past two years.

He said: “I am really pleased that we have been able to help the centre by giving them this life-saving equipment and that I also get the chance to educate them on fire safety, encouraging the youngsters to think about their behaviour and the effects of it.”

Swinton Lock is an arts, education and activity centre on the Sheffield and South Yorkshire Navigation Canal at Swinton. 

As well as accredited boat-handling, it provides a range of activities for young people including fishing, arts and crafts and spraycan art. A number of those who attend have been involved in antisocial behaviour or have other behavioural issues.

Swinton Lock HR and admin manager Sharon Cooke said: “The staff, boat volunteers and crew of Swinton Lock Activity Centre would like to say a massive thank you to South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue for donating brand new throwing lines for use on our canal boats.

“They are a crucial piece of life-saving equipment to have when the boat is in use and for training purposes. Working on and right beside the canal makes water safety a priority for us all.

“As a small independent charity, the help and support, no matter how big or small, provided by the community, South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue and businesses has a huge impact and enables us to help and support others.”