Before you take part in any water-based activity this summer, or any time of year, you should consider what you need to do in order to stay safe while on or near the water.
Depending on whether you are actually going to be on the sea, on a lake, or near water, such as at the coast, your water safety needs will be different in each case.
The Safety on the Water website gives useful advice and checklists for what to consider when you are going afloat or to the coast.
That also includes advice for watersports, which are an increasingly popular pastime in Ireland. Getting the right training in your watersport of choice is the best start to staying safe afloat.
The website has links to the appropriate national governing bodies to help you find the training you need. Get trained, be safe and have fun!
For more see www.safetyonthewater.ie