Water Safety Ireland, the Irish Coast Guard and RNLI are urging swimmers, visitors and holidaymakers to take extra care around the coast this August Bank Holiday weekend and to familiarise themselves with local conditions before entering the water.
As many people travel to coastal locations during the holiday period, the organisations are also encouraging beachgoers to take time to read local safety signage, check for potential hazards such as rip currents, and to swim at a lifeguarded waterway if possible.
Lifeguards around the country are busy dealing with incidents involving inflatable toys and air mattresses, which are lightweight, unstable and which can quickly drift out to sea or capsize unexpectedly, leaving users at risk.
If you are taking part in activities on or near the water, remember to:
- Check the weather and tide times before venturing out
- If walking along the shore, remain alert to rising tides to avoid stranding
- Make every effort to choose a lifeguarded waterway, listed at https://watersafety.ie/lifeguards/
- Avoid cold-water shock by entering the water slowly
- Be aware of rip currents, which can rapidly carry you away from shore
- Swim with others and within your depth
- Leave inflatable toys at home
- Avoid alcohol
- Always wear a lifejacket or suitable buoyancy aid for your activity
- Ensure children are kept under constant, uninterrupted supervision near water
- Let someone ashore know where you are going and when you are due back
- Always carry a means of calling for help, such as a fully charged mobile phone or a marine VHF radio
If you see somebody in trouble on the water or along the coast or think that they are in trouble, use marine VHF Radio Channel 16 or dial 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard.
Friday 31 July is #InternationalLifeguardAppreciationDay.
