The Mayor is pictured with Caroline Casey, Safety Promotions Officer, Health and Safety section, Cork County Council; Christine O’Flynn, Lifeguard, Cork County Council and Gardaí Peter O’Loughlin and John Hennessy. Image: Brian Lougheed
As the August Bank Holiday weekend approaches, thousands of people across Ireland are gearing up for a well-deserved break and looking forward to enjoying various outdoor activities. However, with this excitement comes the responsibility to prioritise safety and awareness. In response to recent incidents and growing concerns about the increase in accidents and tragedies related to fire, road, and water activities, Ireland’s fire, road, and water safety officers are joining forces to promote ‘Amber Thursday’ on 3rd August 2023.
The August Bank Holiday weekend is traditionally one of the busiest weekends of the year, with people flocking to beaches, rivers, pools, and roads, and many choosing to go camping or host bbq’s either in their gardens or away from home. While these activities are a great way to unwind and enjoy time with family and friends, it’s crucial to recognise the potential risks associated with them.
‘Amber Thursday’ is a collaborative effort that brings together various safety bodies, fire services, and local authorities to raise awareness about fire, road, and water safety over the holiday weekend. The aim is to ensure that people are well-informed about the risks and dangers involved and are equipped with the knowledge and tools to make responsible choices.
Road safety is another crucial aspect emphasized during Amber Thursday. With more vehicles on the roads during the holiday weekend, there is a higher likelihood of collisions and accidents. This initiative encourages motorists to exercise caution, obey traffic rules, and avoid dangerous behaviors such as speeding or driving under the influence. Additionally, drivers are reminded to buckle up and ensure all passengers do the same, regar
dless of the distance traveled.
Water safety also takes center stage during Amber Thursday. As people head to beaches, rivers, and pools to cool off, the importance of water safety cannot be stressed enough. Tragically, there have been incidents of drowning and water-related accidents in the past, many of which could have been avoided through proper precautions. Amber Thursday urges everyone to stay vigilant around water, avoid swimming alone, and be aware of their own swimming abilities.
The success of Amber Thursday relies on the joint efforts of various organizations, including Local Authorities, the Chief Fire Officers Association, Road Safety Authority, Water Safety Ireland, and Local Authority Road Safety Officers. By collaborating and pooling their resources, these organisations aim to disseminate safety information effectively, reaching a wider audience and making a more significant impact on public behaviour during the holiday weekend.
As you embark on your bank holiday plans, remember that your safety and the safety of others must always come first. By being responsible and aware, we can make ‘Amber Thursday’ a turning point in prioritising safety during this busy weekend and set an example for future celebrations. Let us unite as a community, look out for one another, and ensure that the joy and merriment of the holiday weekend are not marred by preventable accidents.