Longford County Council Roads, Longford Fire Services and Civil Defence join forces to promote safety

Amber Thursday highlights risks associated with fire, road and water activities

Press Release: Monday, 25 May 2026 

Longford’s fire, road and water safety officers have joined forces to promote #AmberThursday this Thursday, 28 May, ahead of the June Bank Holiday weekend, highlighting the risks associated with fire, road and water activities.

Amber Thursday is a joint initiative to promote safety awareness and highlight the risks associated with these activities during the busy summer season. With more people using waterways and taking part in outdoor activities such as gardening and barbecues, alongside increased traffic on our roads, the June Bank Holiday weekend is a particularly busy period for emergency and rescue services responding to incidents.

Safety officers from Longford County Council, Water Safety Ireland and other key stakeholders are supporting the national campaign on social media, urging the public to be aware of risks and to act responsibly when on the road, in or near water, and when using anything flammable. The public is encouraged to take a moment to ensure their activities are safe.

Longford County Council is also encouraging the public to use #AmberThursday along with #firesafety, #roadsafety and #watersafety on social media in the lead-up to, and over, the Bank Holiday weekend to help spread the message.

Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council, Cllr Garry Murtagh, said, “I am proud to support the Amber Thursday safety message. Our emergency services work tirelessly to keep people safe. By slowing down and taking care on our roads, near water and in the home, we can all help protect one another and enjoy a safe Bank Holiday weekend.”

Chief Executive of Longford County Council, Paddy Mahon, said, “The Amber Thursday campaign reminds us that the most important priority this summer is #SafetyFirst. It highlights the risks associated with fire, road and water activities. Summer is a fantastic time to explore all that Longford has to offer, but it is important that this is done safely and responsibly.”

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