Be water safety aware for Bank Holiday Flooding
Water Safety Ireland is warning that the risk of Bank Holiday accidents is significant because of higher high tides due to Saturday's full moon, possible flooding, rip currents and cooler waters. Stranding will also be a higher risk for shore walkers due to the lower low tides caused by a full moon which exposes even greater areas of the coastline and can tempt walkers into areas where they can be trapped by an incoming tide.
Saturday's full moon will result in strong tides that along with predicted rainfall may cause localised flooding. Water Safety Ireland is urging the public to stay away from edges and for open water swimmers to be aware that stronger rip currents can quickly take swimmers away from shore. Survival time in such scenarios is greatly reduced due to cooler water temperatures. The public should be particularly mindful to check weather forecasts and tide times before venturing out and if planning on entering the sea to know how to spot and safely handle a rip current. If planning other activities such as paddle boarding or kayaking, always go prepared and ask for local advice so the water can be enjoyed safely.
Twenty-five children aged seventeen and under drowned in the last five years. Children are naturally curious about water and constant, uninterrupted, adult supervision is the safest way to avoid tragedy.
Drownings can occur within the local area where familiarity can result in complacency, making danger more difficult to spot. Streams, drains, ponds, water tanks, septic tanks, slurry pits and waterside fencing should all be properly secured. Be aware that manhole covers may have lifted in floodwater.·
The risks are even greater at inland waterways. Although 40% of the population lives within 5km of the coast the majority of drownings actually occur inland at our rivers and lakes.
Always wear a lifejacket when on or near water and ensure that it has a correctly fitted crotch strap.
Carry a fully charged mobile phone at all times. In emergency situations, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard. More advice at www.watersafety.ie