Cork lifeguards urge public to think about water safety this summer

AS we enter peak summer season, Cork lifeguards are reminding the public to be aware of dangers in and near water.

Among the advice being highlighted by the lifeguards overseeing the County Cork beaches is to leave inflatables at home 

Speaking on behalf of the lifeguards, a spokesperson said: “Inflatables are very dangerous and can be blown out to sea or taken away from the accompanying adult very quickly by currents.

"There have been a number of rescues off the coast this season already and the Beach guards are appealing to parents to help us keep your children safe by not bringing inflatables to the beach this summer."

As well as this, the lifeguards are asking the public to wear a life jacket when doing any aquatic activity such as canoeing, kayaking or fishing.

The county lifeguards say they have already had a number of rescues relating to canoeists and these could have been avoided.

“We lose approximately 30 children to drowning every 10 years in Ireland, mainly down to lack of supervision and education. Parents or accompanying adults must supervise their children vigilantly when beside or in the water,” the spokesperson said.

“Look at the safety signs together, talk about the Flag System at the beach. Plan what to do if you get split up at the beach and ensure your child knows your telephone number. Have a look around to see where the ring buoys are. 

"All these are important aspects of keeping your family safe on a day out at the beach this summer.” 

For more information and additional tips on a safe day out at the beach, visit the Cork County Council Beach Lifeguard Facebook page.

There you will be able to see what the conditions at each lifeguarded beach in Co Cork are before you set off on your journey.

Lifeguards are on duty from 10.30am to 7pm full time for July and August and the first two weekends of September.

The lifeguards are asking people to respect social distancing and adopt a 'swim and go' policy at the beaches this summer.

“Remember the beach is a shared space so please respect all beach users. Report any missing or damaged ring buoys on www.ringbuoys.ie and remember a stolen ring buoy is a stolen life,” the spokesperson added.