With the fairly incredible weather out there lots of us are naturally heading straight to the beach and it makes Irish Water Safety’s Awareness week (19th – 25th June) all the more important.
There are an average around 133 drowning each year in Ireland. That’s more than five per fortnight, a staggering number and so many of these deaths could have been avoided.
This week Irish Water Safety are appealing to the public to keep themselves informed of the dangers and reduce the chance of drowning tragedies this summer.
If you’re heading to the coast this summer remember these top tips to stay safe.
- Swim at lifeguarded waterways
- Swim within your depth, parallel and close to shore
- Supervise children at all times as drownings can happen quickly and silently
- Almost 30% of drowned victims had consumed alcohol, don’t drink and swim.
- A lifejacket can save your life, wear one.
If you see someone in trouble, call 112 and ask for the coastguard.
The best place to spend the summer is undoubtedly on the beach so stay safe and always respect the water!
