Health Chiefs Issue Bank Holiday Safety Reminder

• HSE South West urges sun protection and water safety as locals prepare for June bank holiday weekend outdoors

With the June bank holiday weekend approaching, health chiefs in Cork are reminding residents to stay safe whilst making the most of the outdoors. The HSE South West has issued comprehensive guidance covering sun protection, water safety, and alternative healthcare options to keep emergency departments free for genuine emergencies.

The timely reminder comes as many Cork families prepare for weekend trips to the county's beaches, mountains, and outdoor events, with officials eager to ensure everyone returns home safely.

Dr Andy Phillips, Regional Executive Officer for HSE South West, said:

"Lá Saoire i mí Mheitheamh, this bank holiday, is a great time to get out into the countryside with friends and family to enjoy the cultural and sporting events happening in Cork. We hope that you'll protect your skin from the sun and take care on the mountains, near water, or when swimming. If you have an urgent but less serious need for healthcare, please visit one of our Injury Units and help us keep Emergency Departments for those who need them most."

SunSmart Advice Even When Cloudy

Health officials stress that UV protection remains crucial from April to September, even during overcast conditions. The recommended "SunSmart 5 S's" include slipping on protective clothing, applying sunscreen (SPF 30+ for adults, 50+ for children), wearing wide-brimmed hats, seeking shade between 11am and 3pm, and wearing sunglasses.

Shirley O'Shea, Senior Health Promotion and Improvement Officer for Cancer Prevention in the South West, explained: "Spending time outdoors is such an important part of summer, but it is important that children and adults are protected and safe in the sun. Make SunSmart part of your daily routine especially from April-September when the intensity of UV radiation from the sun is greatest, even when it is cloudy."

Local Healthcare Options Available

For those seeking medical attention during the weekend, several injury units across Cork will remain operational. The Mercy Injury Unit at Gurranabraher will be open 8am to 6pm for those aged 10 and older, whilst Mallow and Bantry injury units will operate 8am to 8pm for patients aged five and above. The Irish Life Health expresscare clinic will also provide services from 10am to 8pm for those aged 12 months and over.

Carole Croke, Hospital Manager at Bantry General Hospital, advised:

"In a genuine emergency, do not delay and either go to the ED, or dial 999/112. But if you or your child has a minor injury like a sprain, a cut or a burn, you might be seen faster at an Injury Unit. We're open all weekend here at Bantry and ready to help."

Water Safety and Emergency Access

Water safety remains a priority, with officials reminding families to supervise children constantly around water, empty paddling pools after use, and swim only in designated safe areas between red and yellow flags. The guidance extends to teaching children the S.A.F.E. principle: Stay Away From Edges.

Emergency services have also requested considerate parking near sporting venues and amenity sites to ensure ambulance access remains clear.

Barry Hayes, Assistant Chief Ambulance Officer for NAS South West, commented:

"The June bank holiday weekend is always busy across Cork, with many people making the most of the opportunity to enjoy the wonderful outdoor amenities on our doorstep. We ask the public to remember that in the event of an emergency, ambulances may need to access beaches and other amenity sites. Please make sure that you don't block that access."

For non-emergency healthcare needs, residents can contact SouthDoc on 0818 355 999, visit local pharmacies, or consult the HSE website for injury unit locations and opening times.