The Coast Guard, Water Safety Ireland & the RNLI have issued advice for a safe June bank holiday weekend at Ireland’s waterways where incidents increase.
Tips for enjoying water-based activities safely include checking the forecast, carrying a means of calling for help, acclimatizing to water temperatures, and swimming with others in designated safe areas.
Additional advice includes supervising children near water, avoiding inflatable toys in open water, practicing the float to live method if struggling in water, watching for stranding risks during low tides, and wearing a personal flotation device for water activities.
It is recommended to avoid alcohol, which impairs judgment and coordination, and to contact emergency services if someone is in trouble on the water or along the coast by dialling 112 or using Marine VHF channel 16 to reach the coast guard.
The total number of accidental drownings in Ireland in 2023 was 62, four more than in 2021 but one down on 2022.
