15-year-old boy dies in fifth drowning fatality in Ireland this week

"There is a danger that they will overestimate their ability and underestimate the risks."

A 15-year-old boy has died in a drowning accident in Lough Sheelin. The teenager was recovered from the water yesterday afternoon. Emergency services rushed him to CHI Temple Street. He was in a serious condition when he arrived at the hospital. The young boy, who has not yet been named, sadly passed away despite the doctor's best efforts. This is the fifth drowning incident in Irish waters this week. A young mum, a man in his 70s, and a 55-year-old man all died in separate incidents across the country this week. Experts have urged people to be cautious when swimming, especially in lakes and the sea. According to Water Safety Ireland, an average of 120 drownings occur in Ireland every year. "Children and parents have been without swimming lessons for fifteen months now and there is a danger that they will overestimate their ability and underestimate the risks, such as rip currents, and swimming in unsafe areas as they try to avoid crowds when social distancing," says Roger Sweeney, Deputy CEO of Water Safety Ireland. "People should make every effort to swim at lifeguarded waterways, all listed at www.watersafety.ie and never use inflatable toys in open water as children can be blown out of their depth by the gentlest breeze." Sunday, July 25 marks World Drowning Prevention Day. Water Safety Ireland says it is a "day to remember loved ones lost. Make it your day one by practicing water safety in everything you do. Together, let’s bring our drownings down for good." Click here to read the water safety tips every parent should follow.