The Irish Coast Guard, the RNLI and Irish Water Safety have issued a joint appeal to people to be cautious in or near water throughout the summer months.
In Ireland, an average of 11 people die from drowning every month.
The majority of drownings occur inland at rivers, lakes, canals and quarries, according to the organisation.
In the 10 years to the end of 2014, 37 children in Ireland aged 14 and under drowned and IWS is warning people that the summer can be a particularly dangerous time, as half a million children are on holidays from school.
It emphasised that people, especially children, can drown ‘quickly, silently and sometimes in only inches of water’.
IWS is highlighting water safety among children as part of Water Safety Week, which runs until June 26.
The IWS also asked national school teachers to provide water safety information to their classes.
It said: “If you’re a schoolteacher, please give 45 minutes to water safety before the summer holidays – the free resources of our official curriculum are all online, you can teach it using the online guidelines and kids receive free certificates. It’s not a mandatory part of the curriculum so we rely on you to find the time in your busy day.”
Parents and guardians were also warned to be vigilant.
“Children are particularly at risk and need constant supervision near water,” it said.
It is urging people to follow these steps:
-Learn swimming, survival and water rescue skills
-Swim at lifeguarded zones (these are listed on www.iws.ie).
Swim in view of lifeguards and always follow their advice
-Swim within your depth in case of cramp
-Beware of currents
-Swim in daylight, not in darkness
-Pay attentions to signs on the beach
-Avoid swimming in unfamiliar places
-Always supervise children even if they can swim
-Be aware of water temperature to avoid hypothermia
-Swim parallel and close to the shore
-Do not use inflatable toys in open water
-If boating or fishing, wear a lifejacket with a crotch strap
-Never swim alone.
IWS is also appealing to parents to enrol their children in one of IWS swim weeks at open water venues nationwide. For details visit www.iws.ie.
In good weather there is always a significant rise in maritime recreational incidents.
Gareth Morrison RNLI Lifesaving Delivery Manager said: “As the weather improves we notice an increase in callouts for our lifeboats. Many of these incidents relate to leisure activities where a nice day out has unfortunately ended in a call for help.
Seeking some simple advice before you take to the water or coastline could make all the difference. Our volunteer lifeboat crews are always on call but when every second counts in an emergency you need to be prepared. The RNLI urges everyone to Respect the Water.”
Roger Sweeney, Deputy CEO of Irish Water Safety said that “Ireland averages eleven drownings every month and that constant responsible child supervision will help prevent further tragedies. Parents should check that their local primary school is teaching Irish Water Safety’s classroom based curriculum that instils good habits for a safe summer ahead.”
• The temperature of the sea, lakes, canals and inland water ways is still pretty cold and waters users should exercise caution and be aware of cold water shock and hypothermia.
• Swim with others, never alone, close and parallel to shore.
• If walking on the beach be careful that you are not cut off by the tide. Seek local information about stranding risks.
• Members of the public using recreational craft at the beginning of the season should check the seaworthiness of their craft before launching, particularly engines.
• When departing check the weather forecast, tell someone where you are going and when expected back and wear a life jacket when going afloat.
• For further information on safety on the water check www.safetyonthewater.ie.
• If you see someone in difficulty in the sea, on the shore, cliffs, lakes or rivers dial 999/112 and ask for the Coast Guard.
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