Pleasure Boaters and Anglers should always wear a Personal Flotation Device and use the information on www.iws.ie to learn about the hazards they face.
Surfers should be fully trained, competent and fit.
Shore walkers should stay away from the edge and Beach Walkers should always be mindful of the dangers of being caught unawares.
Everyone should be mindful of the safety of family and friends, especially children. Children are naturally curious about water and constant supervision is the safest way to avoid tragedy. Parents of primary school children should check if their local school has yet introduced Irish Water Safety's PAWS programme - Primary Aquatics Water Safety, which teaches children all about staying safe around water. The program is now a component part of the physical education strand of the primary school curriculum and is key to reducing child drowning mortalities and injuries. Now is the time to instill good habits in time for the summer months ahead.
Swimmers should swim parallel and close to the shore.
In emergency situations, don't hesitate to call 999 or 112.
Irish Water Safety educates and publishes water safety information to help families stay safe around water.
For more information and details of water safety classes in your area log on to www.iws.ie or LoCall Irish Water Safety on 1890 420 202.
