#rnli – As the August Bank Holiday weekend gets underway, the RNLI, the charity that saves lives at sea, is encouraging anyone thinking of using the water, to bear safety in mind.
Whether the sun shines or the rain pours, RNLI volunteers who are located at 44 lifeboat stations across Ireland will be on call and prepared to help anyone should the need arise.
The RNLI is committed to preventing tragedies in and around the water by raising awareness and increasing safe behaviour.
Last year, Irish lifeboats launched 17 times over the August Bank Holiday weekend. These included 13 call outs to boating incidents and four incidents involving people in the water or who were cut off by the tide.
Kevin Rahill, RNLI Sea Safety Manager for Ireland, said: 'We want everyone using the water this weekend to enjoy themselves without getting into any difficulty. Being aware of the dangers and preparing yourself before heading out, can greatly reduce the risks of having an accident'.
Before going afloat, the RNLI encourages that you always wear a properly fitted and serviced lifejacket.
'Tell someone where you are going,' Kevin continued, 'who you are going with and what time you can be expected back and let them know what to do if you don't report back.
'Remember to check the weather, tides and sea state before you go and if you are in doubt ask someone locally. Avoid strong tides and currents that will take you out to sea. Check your engine and fuel before setting off. Run the engine before departing to warm it up and make sure you carry spare fuel. A useful rule of thumb is the one third rule – one third out, one third back and one third to spare. And, remember, coming back into a strong tide or wind will use up more fuel. You should always wear the killcord with an outboard engine where it is fitted.
'Remember to have a reliable means of raising the alarm if you get into difficulty such as a marine VHF, distress flares, personal location beacon or EPIRB. A mobile phone might not have coverage or enough battery life in an emergency'.
For anyone who wants to go fishing from the shore, the RNLI has the following advice.
Knowing the times of high and low tide will help avoid being cut off by a rising tide. Windy weather will create waves which can wash you off a rock or pier.
Spend a while observing your chosen fishing spot before venturing down. Watch for waves, if the tide is rising or falling.
Avoid exposed areas where there are breaking waves.
Keep an eye out for wash from passing boats which might create larger waves.
Wear a lifejacket. If you do get washed in or fall in, it will help keep you afloat.
If you are in danger, or see someone else in trouble, call the Coast Guard on VHF Channel 16, or phone 112 or 999 and ask for the Coast Guard
