THESE are the life saving belts that are used by Foyle Search and Rescue to assist those who get into trouble on the waters.
But abusing these life saving devices can put the lives of others in danger who get into trouble.
In a message on its Facebook page, Foyle Search and Rescue have issued a warning about the abuse of the lifebuoys following an incident yesterday.
“Lifebelts to date have been used on 37 occasions to save the lives of members of the public.
“Foyle Search & Rescue Charity would appeal to the Public, if anyone observes these Lifesaving devices being tampered with please notify the PSNI asap.
“On Saturday, August 12, Foyle Search & Rescue volunteers on duty were made aware that a person crossing the Peace Bridge in the City had been observed tampering with a Life Buoy.
“The person was then observed throwing the Lifebuoy and 150 metres of rope into the River Foyle and leaving the area.
“This Lifebuoy & rope could not be recovered and caused FSR volunteers on Duty to replace the Lifering ensuring this lifesaving device would be in place should it be needed by a member of the public to effect a rescue. The incident was reported to the Police Service of Northern Ireland.
“Extensive plans regarding relocation and additional new Lifebelts being placed along the River Foyle for the Publics Safety are in their Final stages.
“Members of the Public have also conducted Fundraising to purchase extra Lifebuoys for placement along the Banks of the River.”
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