Rotary Clubs Erecting Life Saving Stations
Posted by Tim Corwin
Even in the dead of winter, people love to fish on both the Southampton and the Hampton Bays sides of the Shinnecock Canal. The problem is, if anyone falls in it can be very difficult to get out.
In fact, throughout all of the public areas, there is only one ladder for the entire length of the canal. At times, the current in the canal can be so rapid that it is extremely dangerous even for an expert swimmer. There have been two drownings in the canal that we are aware of, possibly more. To improve safety for everyone, the Southampton and Hampton Bays Rotary Clubs in a joint effort will be erecting life saving stations approximately every 150-200 feet on both sides of the canal. Each station will consist of a 4x4 post with a 24 inch throwable life ring. There will be a total of twenty stations, ten on each side of the canal. Each station will have an alarm box which will set off a loud alarm when a life ring is removed. The alarm serves the double function of preventing theft of the life ring as well as alerting everyone in the immediate area in the event of an emergency. Each station will have a 4 X 6 inch cast bronze plaque commemorating the joint effort of our two Rotary clubs. Suffolk County Legislator Bridgette Fleming's office has been instrumental in getting permission from the County to proceed with this important project and the Southampton Town Parks Department will helping our two clubs with the installation of the life saving stations.
The Southampton Rotary and The Hampton Bays Rotary Clubs are joining efforts to install safety stations along the Shinnecock Canal. Drownings have occured in the canal and the safety stations that will be stategically place on the east and west sides of the canal will be helpful in saving lives. There will be a life preserver and alarm at each of the 20 stations which will be installed approximately 200 feet apart along the canal. Come to our "HANDS ACROSS THE WATER" event and support this cause and other Rotary programs on Sept 22, 2016 6-8pm at Oaklands in Hampton Bays. There will be raffle prizes to be won as well. Hope to see you here! More Information.
