Water Safety Warning Issued Ahead of October Bank Holiday Weekend

Irish Coast Guard, Water Safety Ireland, and the RNLI have issued a joint reminder urging the public to prioritise water safety as the October bank holiday weekend approaches, with shorter days and colder temperatures increasing risks for those engaging in water activities.

The three organisations have highlighted the growing dangers associated with autumn water conditions, including cold-water shock, rip currents, and hidden depths caused by localised flooding.

With open water swimming and coastal activities continuing throughout the year despite dropping temperatures, officials are emphasising the importance of understanding how the body reacts to cold water and remaining vigilant to seasonal hazards.

The agencies have issued comprehensive guidelines for those planning to swim in open water during the bank holiday period. Swimmers are advised to plan ahead by reviewing weather forecasts, tide schedules, and wave conditions before entering the water. They should pack warm clothing and a hot drink for after swimming, and keep a mobile phone in a waterproof case.

Swimming alone is strongly discouraged, with officials urging people to always swim with a companion and inform someone of their intended route and return time. Swimmers should enter the water gradually to allow their body to adjust and reduce the risk of cold-water shock.

Visibility is crucial during autumn months, and swimmers are advised to wear brightly coloured swim caps and consider using a tow float. Officials stress the importance of staying within comfortable depths and swimming parallel to the shore rather than out to sea.

For those caught in a rip current, the advice is to remain calm and swim parallel to the shore to escape, or float to conserve energy. The agencies emphasise the 'Float to Live' technique for anyone finding themselves in difficulty in the water.

Anyone who sees somebody in trouble on the water, along the coast, or suspects someone may be in difficulty should use Marine VHF Channel 16 or dial 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.

The warning comes as thousands of people across Cork and Ireland prepare for the October bank holiday weekend, with many expected to engage in coastal walks and water activities despite the cooler weather conditions.