Richmond Council installs speaker at Teddington Lock to deter river jumps
A 17-second safety message plays when CCTV operators spot someone near the water’s edge
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A speaker at Teddington Lock now broadcasts a safety message when CCTV operators see someone near the water’s edge. The system, installed by Richmond Council, aims to prevent drownings by warning of hidden dangers in the Thames. The message plays automatically and lasts 17 seconds.
The recording states that jumping from the bridges is extremely dangerous. It warns of hidden objects, strong currents, and shallow water that can cause life-changing injuries or death. The message also informs that authorities have been notified. The council hopes it will make people reconsider before jumping.
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Why the speaker was installed
Richmond Council introduced the measure after a series of incidents at the lock. In 2023, 14-year-old Brian Sasu from Feltham died after jumping from a bridge at Tagg’s Island, a nearby location with similar risks. The council said the river can appear tempting on hot days but poses immediate dangers.
Councillor Jim Millard, Deputy Leader of Richmond Council, said the speaker delivers clear safety messages at the moment they are most needed. He urged parents and carers to discuss the risks with young people. The council has previously warned of cold water shock, hidden debris, and poor water quality in the area.
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On hot days, the river can look really tempting. But jumping into the Thames at Teddington Lock is extremely dangerous and can put your life at risk in seconds.
Councillor Jim Millard, Deputy Leader of Richmond Council
What local agencies have warned about
Emergency services and local agencies have repeatedly highlighted the risks at Teddington Lock. Matt Allchurch of the Teddington RNLI said cold water shock can affect even the strongest swimmers. Commander Rob Davies of the London Fire Brigade warned of hidden rocks and glass beneath the surface.
Brian Thomas of the Environment Agency added that water quality varies and that bikes and shopping trolleys have been found in the river. The council shared these warnings on its Facebook page in June. Residents are advised to call 999 if they see someone in difficulty.
What happens next
The speaker is now operational at Teddington Lock. Richmond Council has not announced plans to install similar systems elsewhere. The council continues to urge residents to report emergencies by calling 999. No formal consultation or further decision stages have been announced.
Questions this report answers
+What does the speaker at Teddington Lock say?
The speaker plays a 17-second message warning that jumping from the bridges is extremely dangerous. It states that hidden objects, strong currents, and shallow water can cause life-changing injuries or death. The message also says authorities have been notified.
+Why did Richmond Council install the speaker?
Richmond Council installed the speaker after the 2023 death of 14-year-old Brian Sasu from Feltham. He died after jumping from a bridge at Tagg’s Island. The council aims to prevent similar incidents by warning people of the dangers at Teddington Lock.
+What should I do if I see someone in difficulty in the water?
If you see someone in difficulty in the water, you should call 999 immediately. Emergency services, including the RNLI and London Fire Brigade, have warned that the Thames at Teddington Lock contains hidden dangers such as debris and strong currents.
+Will Richmond Council install more speakers like this one?
Richmond Council has not announced plans to install similar speakers elsewhere. The current system is operational at Teddington Lock, and no further decision stages or consultations have been made public.
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