49 people have drowned in Ireland this year.
August is one of the most popular months for open water swimming in Ireland and Irish Water Safety is appealing to the public to reduce the risk of drowning by swimming at Lifeguarded waterways and within your depth.
They’ve warned that drownings often happen quickly and silently with 80% of drownings occurring within the home county of the victim.
Alcohol is also factor in a third of all drownings in Ireland.
Men are particularly at risk in Ireland’s waterways as males overestimate their skills and competencies and underestimate the risk and danger, leading to 84 males drowning last year compared to 25 females.
Irish Water Safety give the following advice to ensure that you stay safe while swimming.
- Swim at lifeguarded waterways – listed at here.
- Swim within your depth, stay within your depth.
- Swim with others in areas that are traditionally recognised as safe. Check to see if a Ringbuoy is present.
- Never use inflatable toys in open water or swim out after anything drifting.
- When angling or boating: Wear a Lifejacket. Find out what device suits your needs here.
- Supervise children at all times near water – 30 people aged 14 and under have drowned in the last decade.
If you notice someone in difficulty in the water, follow the below steps.
- Shout to the casualty and encourage them to shore. This may orientate them just enough.
- Reach out with a long object such a branch or a piece of clothing but do not enter the water yourself.
- Throw a ringbuoy or any floating object and call 112 for the coast guard.
