With Friday set to be the hottest day so far this year, and sunny spells expected across the weekend, water safety experts have appealed for bathers to take extra care pointing out that an average of nine people a month drown on Ireland’s beaches and inland waterways.
As temperatures are forecast to reach the mid-20s, Water Safety Ireland, the Coast Guard and the RNLI issued a joint appeal calling for sensible precautions. The appeal comes as figures released at the end of Water Safety Awareness Week show that 1,108 people drowned in the last 10 years, an average of nine every month. Some 79 people drowned last year.
Alcohol was a factor in one-third of all drownings, according to acting CEO of Water Ireland, Roger Sweeney. Mr Sweeney appealed to those who are enjoying the hot weather to be aware that, at this time of year, water temperatures are still quite cold – a factor which affects muscles and peoples’ ability to swim.
Met Éireann said Friday would likely be the hottest day so far this year in parts of the south and southeast where temperatures are expected to reach 24 degrees.
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A dry and sunny start to the weekend is forecast across south Leinster and south Munster for Friday morning, with cloudier and cooler conditions elsewhere.
However, it will be a tale of two halves as conditions in the north and northwest are set to be very different, with persistent rain forecast throughout the day.
On Saturday, cloudy conditions are expected to have spread to the southeast with sunshine developing elsewhere, along with isolated showers, mostly in the northwest. Highest temperatures of 13 to 16 degrees in a moderate north to northwest wind.
The outlook for the coming days is for scattered showers in the west and north on Saturday night with a mix of cloud and clear spells elsewhere. Lowest temperatures of seven to nine degrees in a mostly moderate northerly wind.
Sunny spells and isolated showers are expected on Sunday morning, giving way to a mostly dry and sunny afternoon with highest temperatures of 14 to 18 degrees in moderate northerly winds. It is expected to turn chilly on Sunday night under clear skies with temperatures down to six to nine degrees.
Current indications suggest next week will continue somewhat unsettled with some spells of sunshine and showers at times. Temperatures will be close to normal for the time of year.
Irish Coast Guard operations manager Micheál O’Toole said those planning to go boating this weekend should familiarise themselves with the Code of Practice for the Safe Operation of Recreational Craft available at safetyonthewater.gov.ie.
“It is a valuable source of information, advice and best practice operational guidance for owners, masters, operators and users of a range of pleasure and recreational craft operating in Irish coastal and inland waters,” Mr O’Toole said.
Kevin Rahill, RNLI water safety lead, added: “With the weather improving and more people going in or on the water, it is important to take some basic steps to stay safe while having fun.
“If you are going swimming, try to avoid going alone and make sure you are visible at all times by wearing a brightly coloured swim cap.
“Use a tow float and carry a suitable means of communication such as a mobile phone in a waterproof pouch and a whistle. If you get into trouble in the water, float to live: lean back, using your arms and legs to stay afloat. Control your breathing, then call for help or swim to safety.”
