Water safety appeal sent out ahead of Easter weekend

Easter weekend is a popular time for sea swimming.

A water safety appeal has been issued by the Irish Coast Guard, RNLI and Water Safety Ireland ahead of the Easter weekend. Each of the organisations is urging the public to be aware of cold water shock as the temperature of the water remains "very cold" still at this time of the year. Anyone who is planning to go swimming along the Irish coast or inland is being advised to acclimatise to the temperature slowly. Any new residents into the country, especially those from Ukraine, are said to seek local advice before going into any natural water activity as many people will not be familiar with Irish sea conditions. Irish Coast Guard operations manager Micheál O’Toole said having some basic water safety knowledge “could make an enormous difference and even save a life” as a number of people use this weekend to visit the coast. “People need to be mindful that the water is very cold at this time of year, and it is easy to be caught out by tides,” he said. “We extend a special welcome to members of the Ukrainian community, and we are mindful that they may be unfamiliar with Irish tides and local currents. We would encourage the wider public to be mindful of this risk and be alert to people recreating in unsuitable areas, especially in areas that can become isolated with changing tidal conditions.” Water Safety Ireland’s acting chief executive Roger Sweeney said that this time of year is when many enjoy their first swim of the year, but it is to be noted that "lifeguards have not yet started the patrols that rescue hundreds every season.”

If heading out on the water or visiting the coast:

• Always check the weather and tides
• Carry a reliable means of raising the alarm (ie a phone or VHF radio)
• Tell someone where you are going and what time you will be back
• Wear a suitable Personal Flotation Device on the water
• Watch out for incoming tides to avoid getting cut off

If you are swimming:

• Water temperatures are still cold at this time of the year, so consider wearing a wetsuit to stay warm
• Acclimatise slowly
• Wear a bright swimming cap and consider a tow float to increase your visibility
• Never swim alone and always ensure that your activity is being monitored by someone

If you see somebody in trouble on the water or along the coast, or think they are in trouble, dial 112 or use VHF radio CH 16 and ask for the Coast Guard. There is also a resource available of water safety that has been translated into various languages available here.