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The Blackwater looking languid this week as the sun blazed. People are advised against swimming in the river for safety reasons however as currents and conditions can be unpredictable. Photo: Ellen Lynch

With the current heatwave sending people to waterways to cool off a timely warning was issued this week by the Irish Coast Guard. The public is being urged to pay special attention as temperatures in the high 20s are forecast to last for the rest of the week and the weekend when traditionally many people take to the water to enjoy outdoor activities.
 
Declan Geoghegan, Manager of the Irish Coast Guard said warmer weather encourages everyone to enjoy the outdoors and brings thousands of people to our coastlines, to our beaches and the outdoors. 

"We want everyone to enjoy it but to remember to take simple, basic advice about staying safe on the water and along cliff paths, when hill walking and enjoying the outdoors. Time and again, we see people ignoring basic safety advice, taking risks and then getting into difficulty, sometimes leading to loss of life. The Coast Guard is a 24/7 service but we must again advise caution as too many people are taking risks and ignoring our advice.”

Inland people are advised against swimming in local rivers and lakes as conditions and currents can be unpredictable and there are no lifeguards. Anyone taking to rivers or lakes in boats should always wear a lifejacket and ensure their craft is fit for purpose and not overloaded.

Last month the Irish Coast Guard launched a summer water safety campaign designed to protect children on beaches and near coastlines.  The Coast Guard made available thousands of free waterproof wristbands under the ‘Give us a Hand’ campaign.
 
Parents or guardians can write their phone numbers on the wristband so that lifeguards, emergency services or members of the public can contact the child’s parents if the child becomes lost or becomes separated. The wristbands carry a message reminding the public to call 112 and ask for the Coast Guard for beach, water or cliff emergencies.
 
The wristbands are available from all Coast Guard units and can also be got by emailing: admin@irishcoastguard.ie
 
“This summer, we began our 2013 safety awareness campaign in May and we want to strongly get across the safety message to families, leisure users and the fishing industry about going out on the water. We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors this summer weather but remember to heed our advice to ensure that you and your family and friends stay safe,” Mr Geoghegan said.
 
For specific advice and information on any water and coastal activity, visit www.safetyonthewater.ie . Throughout the summer (as at other times of the year), Coast Guard Units throughout Ireland will patrol coastlines issuing safety advice and information to holidaymakers and tourists.
 

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