Irish Coast Guard, RNLI and Water Safety Ireland reflect on lives lost

Ahead of World Drowning Prevention Day this Friday (25 July), the Irish Coast Guard, RNLI and Water Safety Ireland are remembering all those who have lost their lives to the water. The organisations are jointly appealing to everyone planning a trip on or near water to go prepared and help make sure everyone can come home safely.

Since the start of this year, there have been 42 drownings in Irish waters, that’s 10 more people than for the same period last year. These are not just statistics, but a reminder of the many families affected by drowning incidents in recent months.

With the recent warm weather many people have headed to the water to socialise and cool off unaware of the dangers open water presents.

The three organisations say they want people to enjoy recreational activities associated with the water, but are pleading with people to know the risks, plan and prepare, and to look out for each other.

To stay safe:

• Check the weather and tides before heading out and if walking the shoreline, be vigilant for incoming tides that can cause strandings
• Be aware of rip currents - strong currents can pull even the most experienced swimmers out to sea
• Go to lifeguarded beaches, always swim with others, never alone
• Always swim within your depth and stay within your depth
• When on the water always wear a lifejacket or buoyancy aid
• Remember children require constant uninterrupted supervision near water
• Let someone ashore know of your plans and return time
• Always have a means to call for help such as a fully charged mobile phone or marine VHF Radio

If you find yourself in difficulty in the water, Float to Live:

• Tilt your head back with your ears submerged
• Relax and try to breathe normally
• Move your hands and legs to help you stay afloat
• It’s OK if your legs sink, we all float differently
• Once your breathing is under control, call for help or swim to safety.

If you see somebody in trouble on the water or along the coast or think that they are in trouble, use marine VHF radio 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] or Treasa Ni Bhraonain, RNLI Communications Placement on 0874764436 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.