A Safer Riverside

Local councils and riparian landowners are important partners in keeping the Thames riverside safe. This handbook aims to provide a guide to improve safety infrastructure on riverbanks, including the architecture and maintenance of riverside areas and the provision of safety equipment.

A Safer Riverside illustrates the problems and sets out solutions. It highlights the importance of features such as grab chains and offers examples of good design from around the world.

The correct design of river walls, jetties, bridges and riverside environment can prevent accidental entry into the water, deter deliberate attempts and aid rescue efforts.

Building the right safety infrastructure can reduce the pressure on the emergency services and ultimately save lives.