Star comment: Danger of rivers are all too real
It is one of the most picturesque features of Shropshire. But the River Severn is also one of the most deadly.
Each year it claims lives as people and livestock get into trouble.
Too many victims are sucked beneath its undertow to a watery grave.
Statutory authorities have made great strides in recent years to minimise nature's destructive force. The river is fenced to prevent humans and animals from straying too close to the edge.
At times of flood, there are additional safeguards in place to prevent accident or injury. And during summer, when children are particularly at risk, there are warnings and campaigns to inform people of the dangers.
Local councils and the Environment Agency are not the only ones who seek to safeguard lives.
The fire service and the region's animal rescue unit also conduct safety drills on the River Severn to make sure they are equipped in case of emergency.
Frequently, 999 situations fall to them and they have to be match-fit.
On average, authorities conduct one river rescue every two weeks and with the schools closed and crowds flocking to the sunny riverbanks, summer can be a particularly hazardous time.
The fact that water levels are lower and currents less powerful than when the river is in full spate does not minimise its deadly potential. Lives can be lost in the shallowest of depths.
Passers-by who might have seen the dramatic drills on the River Severn would have been forgiven for imagining that they were watching the real thing. That is testament to the hard work and dedication of professionals who have the highest skill levels and are committed to maintaining public safety.
Practice makes perfect and crews have conducted exercises that have prepared them for every eventuality. They have shown themselves capable of adapting to the most taxing of situations and honed their skills with considerable expertise.
Of course, we might all like to imagine that such techniques would not be put to use in real life situations. Unfortunately, the reality is quite different. At some point this month, fire crews will receive a 999 call and be dispatched to a stretch of water to save a life or prevent a tragedy. We should not take the professional integrity of our emergency crews for granted. Their presence in demanding drills shows that they are ready for action.
