New safety speaker at Teddington Lock warns against dangerous river jumping

A new messaging speaker has been installed at Teddington Lock by Richmond Council as part of its ongoing efforts to warn people about the serious risks of jumping into the River Thames.

The speaker, which is being used for the first time in the borough, enables a safety message to be shared directly with people gathering near the lock, helping to reinforce existing warnings about cold water shock, strong currents, shallow water and hidden debris.

The 17-second message, which can be changed, says: “Attention. You are being monitored by CCTV. Jumping from these bridges is extremely dangerous. Hidden objects, strong currents and shallow water can cause life-changing injuries or death. 
Climb down immediately and do not jump. The relevant authorities have been notified.”

It will play when CCTV operators spot people who appear to be considering jumping into the river.

The installation of the one-way speaker follows continued work by the Council and partners, including RNLI Teddington Lifeboat Station, London Fire Brigade, the Met Police and the Environment Agency, to raise awareness and keep communities safe around the Thames during warmer weather.

Councillor Jim Millard, the Deputy Leader of Richmond Council, said: “On hot days, the river can look really tempting. But jumping into the Thames at Teddington Lock is extremely dangerous and can put your life at risk in seconds.

“This new speaker helps us get clear safety messages to people at the point they need to hear them, and we hope it will make young people stop and think before taking a risk.

“Parents and carers also have a vital role to play. Please speak to young people about the dangers of jumping into the river and remind them that no quick dip is worth risking their life.”

Richmond Council is continuing to urge people not to jump into the Thames at Teddington Lock and to enjoy the river safely by understanding the risks and looking out for one another.

Anyone who sees someone in difficulty in the water should call 999.

Learn how to enjoy the river as safely as possible.