IRISH WATER SAFETY

Think Water Safety This Summer

Irish Water Safety, the statutory body established to promote water safety has the following advice for people taking to beaches, lakes and rivers over the Summer

• Avoid places that are dangerous for swimming - if in doubt, err on the side of caution.
• Do not drink alcohol before swimming, do not swim soon after eating and be mindful of local hazards such as strong currents.
• Parents should take care to monitor their children in and around the water at all times.

Other advice available from one of three new posters recently launched by IWS to increase public awareness in and around our waterways includes

• Swim with others - never alone
• Air mattresses should not be used in open water
• Stay within your depth and swim parallel to shore
• Beware of sandbanks - an incoming tide could cut you off from shore
• Do not swim out after anything drifting
• Pay attention to signs on the beach and obey the flags:

Red and Yellow Flags:
The area between the flags is under lifeguard supervision

Red Flag:
Conditions are too dangerous for swimming

No Flag:
No lifeguard on duty

Boating enthusiasts are reminded to wear a lifejacket at all times when on deck, check the weather forecast for the area and check the condition of boat and equipment. Other important advice includes:

• Check locally for dangerous currents and tides.
• Do not set out unless accompanied by an experienced person.
• Leave details of your planned trip with someone on shore including departure and arrival times.
• Inform the Coastguard if you plan extended passages.

IWS has an extensive summer programme of swim and water safety courses at rivers, lakes and beachfronts throughout Ireland. Make this year the year you learn to swim.

Further Information is available by contacting: Irish Water Safety, The Long Walk, Galway
Tel: 091-564400 or 087-6789601 Website: www.iws.ie

 


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