Bakkafrost Scotland has donated safety equipment to the Gigha Emergency Plan Group, a local body coordinating responses to incidents on the west coast island.
The company provided four radios, 10 high-visibility vests and a waterproof storage cabinet to the group, which supports emergency services during events such as severe weather, ferry disruption and power outages.
Gigha, located around three miles off the Kintyre peninsula, relies on a ferry connection to the mainland. Disruptions to that link can affect access to emergency services.
The Gigha Emergency Plan Group brings together the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, Coastguard, Scottish Ambulance Service, the community nurse, the Isle of Gigha Heritage Trust and volunteers.
The group was deployed last summer when ferry services were suspended during a peak period, highlighting the need for improved coordination tools, including communication equipment and visible identification for responders.
“For us, the vests help in an emergency situation. If you see people wearing them, they’re the people you’re going to go to first. Locals know who we are, but the public doesn’t,” said Andy Clements, crew commander with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.
“The walkie talkies are a great idea as well because phone reception is not always the best, so they are perfect for what we need.”
Bakkafrost Scotland has also offered the use of a covered fast rigid boat to support the transport of fire crews from the mainland, if required. The island has three firefighters, while four are needed to crew a fire engine.
“It gives us the peace of mind if we do have a serious fire, we would be able to get the crews over,” Clements said.
Bakkafrost Scotland operates two salmon farms at Druimyeon Bay and East Tarbert Bay and is developing a third site off the island’s west coast.
“We’re pleased to support the Gigha Emergency Plan Group with practical equipment that will make a real difference when it’s needed most,” said managing director Ian Laister.
“We’re also looking at how our boats can provide practical support when access to the island is disrupted.”
