Waterford City River Rescue is appealing to people not to share videos or images from a serious incident in the city on Thursday.

The organisation says footage from what was an active emergency response is being circulated online, including videos, photos and livestreams.

Waterford City River Rescue says reposting the material can cause additional distress for families, witnesses and emergency responders involved in the incident.

In a statement, the group says it never expected to have to issue an appeal like this in its 20 years of service.

The organisation is urging people not to share or engage with the content online, saying emergency services work in extremely difficult circumstances and deserve dignity and respect while carrying out their duties.

Waterford City River Rescue also thanked the local community for its support following Thursday’s incident.

The group praised all emergency services involved for their professionalism and efforts during the response.