Rescue volunteers have called for jet ski riders to be considerate in the water after equipment worth £150,000 was drenched during a training exercise.
Volunteers for Derry -based Foyle Search and Rescue (FS&R) were training during the heatwave on Monday, July 18, when the city had temperatures as high as 29C.
A spokesperson for the group said that members of the public on the jet skis approached them yesterday while they were on the River Foyle using sonar equipment worth £150,000. They added that one of the boats 'proceeded to drench our boat, our crew and the equipment'.
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The FS&R spokesperson posted on social media: "Whilst doing Sonar Training this evening, we were approached on the river by members of the public on jet skis.
"It’s great to see people enjoy the water when they do so safely. However, on this occasion, one member of the group proceeded to drench our boat, our crew and the equipment. We were carrying out a survey of the river using equipment that cost in excess of £150,000.
"We would appreciate consideration from those on jet skis when we are in any vessel, whether on a call out, on training or in this instance, carrying out a survey of the river that we hope will in turn help us identify anomalies, bodies on the river bed."
The post has sparked outrage online, with many showing their support for the rescue organisation. One person posted: "Disgusting behaviour shouldn’t get away with this someday might be dam glad of your services."
A second wrote: "Just ridiculous behaviour no respect whatsoever for the immense work that you provide to our city." Meanwhile, a third said: "Some folk have no thought for anyone but themselves, unfortunately."
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