Warning to take care in Cork waters over Bank Holiday

The Irish Coast Guard, RNLI and Water Safety Ireland have appealed for people to take care when they are on or near the water this August Bank Holiday weekend.

It comes as organisations say they are seeing a rise in the number of incidents this summer involving paddleboarders, people becoming stranded due to incoming tides, recreational boater groundings, and several diving incidents.

RNLI Water Safety Lead, Linda-Gene Byrne said that it is important for people to be aware of simple safety advice which could save their life.

“If you are heading out on the water, we would always advise you to wear a suitable personal flotation device for your activity.

“If you are on a paddleboard, choose the right releasable leash for the location you are paddling.

“Always check the weather forecast and tide times as this can affect your paddling, and always tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back.

“Keep a means of calling for help attached to you in a waterproof pouch or close to hand so that in an emergency you can call 999 / 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.”

Water Safety Ireland’s CEO, Joanne Walsh said rip currents can be a danger at Ireland’s beaches and swimmers are advised to know what to do if they encounter one.

“If you do get caught in a rip current, remain calm and don’t try to swim against the current. Instead, swim out of the current in a direction parallel to the shoreline and then back towards shore. If still in difficulty, call for help and float on your back like a starfish.”

Kevin Whitney, Operations Manager with the Irish Coast Guard, said if people are participating in any diving activities, “then it is highly recommended that you file a float plan with someone ashore or the Coast Guard so that emergency services are aware of your location and can assist if need be.”