Kilkenny Civil Defence and Kilkenny Fire and Rescue Service have taken part in a joint training exercise aimed at strengthening cooperation between the two emergency services.
Civil Defence Officer Michelle Colclough says the exercise helped crews build working relationships, share skills, and prepare for incidents where both organisations may be called into action, particularly during water rescue emergencies.
Ms Colclough said cold water shock remains a serious risk, even during a heatwave, as water temperatures can still be dangerously low.
“You could jump off a pier or a bridge, but you’re actually hitting cold water that’s maybe only seven, eight degrees. And while it sounds like it might be a nice reprieve from the heat, it will actually cause your body a bit of shock. Thankfully, we haven’t had any calls for assistance for that during the recent heat wave, but training like that helps us be prepared to do so.” she said.
