Stings have emerged as the biggest issue reported on the beaches of Donegal this summer.
Donegal’s lifeguard team responded to a total of 114 accidents and incidents this season to date, with 64% of incidents being stings.
15% of recorded incidents were minor cuts, while sprains, dislocations, heat exhaustion, burns and deep lacerations also occurred on local beaches in recent months.
The range of other incidents included strokes and eye injuries, which show the need for a high level of training required for lifeguards.
There were 14 beach rescues in 2022, according to a report to Donegal County Council from Kevin McCloskey, Beach Lifeguard Supervisor.
The majority of rescues were in Bundoran, mainly involving inexperienced surfers getting caught in rip currents.
Beach Lifeguards aim to have as few rescues as possible, as preventing the public getting into difficulty in the water in the first place is essential.
“The staycation to a large extent has stayed with us for yet another season with large numbers of visitors to our coastline and beaches. Thankfully there has not been a corresponding increase in accidents/incidents in the water. Our Beach Lifeguards did a wonderful job keeping locals and visitors safe while they enjoy the beautiful beaches in Donegal,” Mr McCloskey said.
