Water Safety Advice and Tips – Know the Risk

Coastal Water Safety

Before you go into the water, make a plan. Make sure that you tell a friend/family where you are going and when you will return and bring a fully charged phone with you.

It is important when going in or near the water including all types of fishing, jet skiing, water skiing, sailing, windsurfing, paddle boarding to always wear a personal Flotation Device. It should be the correct size and you should know how to operate it.

High tides and strong winds

Please stay away from the coastline during times of high tides and strong winds. Waves can pull you in and it is not safe to get close to the edge.

Sea Swimming

During the colder months, follow these useful tips:

• Get in warm and get out warm,
• Swim with a friend,
• Don’t swim out to sea,
• Always swim parallel to the shore,
• Don’t stay in the water too long until you are acclimatized and swim regularly,
• Swim at designated bathing areas,
• Wear a brightly coloured swimming cap,
• Bring a tow float.

Always check the weather and be aware of rip currents before you enter the water. For further information please see watersafety.ie