Comhairle issues social distancing reminder and warns about the dangers of ‘pier jumping’

With a photo showing small groups of largely young people gathered on Bayble pier on Monday the Comhairle said in its statement:

“We all have a responsibility to maintain the good practice which has thus far prevented the spread of COVID-19 in the Western Isles. The Comhairle has signs on all its piers and the public are reminded to pay attention to these safety notices.”

The Comhairle’s social media post quickly attracted a large number of comments with many expressing concerns over the risk of spreading the virus as a result of social distancing rules not being followed and the dangers for local communities of any complacency towards the regulations in the islands.

Chief Inspector Ian Graham, Local Area Commander of Police Scot;and, said: “The regulations remain that people should only leave the house for very limited purposes, for example for basic necessities, for exercise or recreation, for medical needs or travelling for work which cannot be done from home.

“We are asking people to take personal responsibility to do the right thing and remember the purpose of these measures is to aid the collective effort to protect the NHS and save lives by preventing the virus from spreading.

“Our officers will continue to engage with the public, explain the legislation and guidance and encourage compliance. We will use enforcement as a last resort only where there is a clear breach of the legislation.”

In a later post concerning the same photo, Comhairle nan Eilean Siar warned of the dangers of ‘pier jumping’.

In a statement, the Comhairle stated: “Comhairle nan Eilean Siar harbours is drawing attention to the dangers of what many think is a harmless pastime, in reaction to recently posted pictures on social media highlighting the lack of social distancing at Bayble Pier.

“‘Pier jumping’, also known as tombstoning, is recognised by the RNLI, the Maritime Coastguard Agency and the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents as a hazardous activity which can cause life changing injuries and fatalities.

“Pier jumping or tombstoning is a high risk unregulated activity undertaken by unsupervised individuals.”