Monitoring product set to combat lifebuoy vandalism risk

The Lava Group, has started an innovative trial of a new lifebuoy monitoring system in Carrickfergus Harbour. The product, which is called Sentry, has been designed to combat the risk associated with vandals stealing and damaging equipment from waterfronts. The absence of a lifebuoy can jeopardise the chances of a life-saving rescue during an emergency situation.

Lifebuoys require regular inspections to ensure that they have not fallen foul of misuse, theft or vandalism. Constant monitoring can have financial implications for those responsible for maintaining and inspecting the equipment, with manpower and resources required to oversee the checks.

Sentry is patented in the UK and has taken five years to develop. Remote monitoring will allow the user to get real time status of all of the safety equipment within their area of responsibility. In the event of a lifebuoy being removed or tampered with, an alarm will be sent immediately to the correct member of staff.

Gareth Morrison, CEO of The Lava Group, said:

This trial period is a significant step forward in bringing to market an important product in the development of safety monitoring solutions. Due to the vital function that lifebuoys perform it is paramount that they are present at all times. Carrickfergus Harbour has been very open to partnering with The Lava Group on this innovative trial.

Over the coming weeks we will be assessing the benefits that this product can have for our customers in the public and private sectors. We are confident that it will help to reduce loss of life, but we will also be focusing on increasing efficiency via remote monitoring. As our system is solar powered it is a sustainable option. We look forward to working with the Harbour Master, Nigel Thompson, as we install our products for this trial.