Seasonal water safety appeal from the Coast Guard, Water Safety Ireland and RNLI

Whether you are a seasonal swimmer or first-time dipper please heed the following advice and know what to do in an emergency.

For those taking part in winter dips and swims, the advice is:

· Check weather, wind and tides before going in the water

· Inform someone ashore of your plans and your return time

· Acclimatise slowly when entering the water to avoid cold water shock

· Wear a bright cap and tow float to increase your visibility

· Swim with others and always stay within your depth

· Remember if you’re struggling in the water float to live

· Should you get into difficulty or see someone in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard

For those planning to enjoy a coastal walk during the Christmas break:

• Check weather and tide times before venturing out
• Stay well back from stormy, wintery seas and cliff edges

• Be aware that coastal paths, promenades, and piers may be slippery or prone to waves breaking over them
• Take a fully charged phone with you
• In an emergency, call 999 or 112 and ask for Coast Guard

As another year ends, the Coast Guard, Water Safety Ireland and RNLI extend their sincere thanks to the search and rescue volunteers who are on call 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year protecting people on the water and extend their best wishes to everyone for a safe and peaceful Christmas.

If you see somebody in trouble on the water or along the coast or think that they are in trouble, use Marine VHF Ch 16 or dial 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.

Ends

RNLI media contacts

For more information, please contact Nuala McAloon, RNLI Regional Communications Manager on 087 648 3547 or email [email protected] or Niamh Stephenson, RNLI Regional Communications Lead on 087 1254 124 or [email protected]

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.

Learn more about the RNLI

For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, TikTok and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.

Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.