Water Safety Warning Issued Ahead of June Bank Holiday Weekend

The Irish Coast Guard, Water Safety Ireland, and the RNLI are urging the public to take care if planning any activity on or near the water this June Bank Holiday weekend.

While air temperatures are warmer, sea and inland water temperatures remain low. This contrast presents a hidden but serious risk of cold-water shock and hypothermia to anyone entering, or unexpectedly falling into, the water.

Even on warm, sunny days, water temperatures are often below 15°C, cold enough to trigger cold-water shock. This sudden reaction can cause involuntary gasping, panic, and loss of breathing control, greatly increasing the risk of drowning.

With a large number of people expected to visit the coast or inland waterways over the bank holiday weekend, for many this will be their first dip of the season. The three organisations advise entering the water slowly, splashing yourself to acclimatise, keeping dips short, and staying within your depth. People are urged not to go alone, to swim with others, to stay together, and to ensure everyone leaves the water safely.

For those planning a water-based activity, the advice is to check weather and tides before heading out and carry a means of calling for help, such as a fully charged mobile phone. Always wear a correctly fitted and serviced lifejacket or buoyancy aid, avoid alcohol as it impairs judgement, coordination, and reaction time, and let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.

If you fall into the water unexpectedly or get into difficulty, remember the Float to Live technique: stay calm and fight any instinct to panic or thrash around; tilt your head back with your ears submerged; relax and try to breathe normally; and move your hands and feet to help you stay afloat. It is fine if your legs sink, as everyone floats differently. Once you have regained control of your breathing, call for help, raise your hand, or swim to safety if you are able.

Anyone who sees somebody in trouble on the water or along the coast, or thinks that they may be in trouble, should use marine VHF radio Ch 16, or dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.