The Irish Coast Guard urges members of the public and water users generally to be very careful over the Christmas Holidays. No matter what the water activity is, think safety and obey the basic rules.
Whether it’s canoeing, surfing, angling, sail boarding, diving, jet skiing, yacht and dinghy sailing or any other form of boating at sea, on lakes or rivers: always wear a Personal Flotation Device (it’s the law). Never go out alone, ("less than 3 should never be" is the advice from the Irish Canoe Union), be able to swim, get the proper training to stay safe, join a club or association, never go out on the water having consumed alcohol, check the weather forecast and sea conditions, know the area, be aware of your own capabilities and that of your craft, check your equipment, tell someone where you are going and what time you will be back and never go out when darkness is approaching. Never, ever, attempt to go out on ice over any form of water. This is basic simple advice, which could save your life and allow you and your family and friends to have happy memories of this Christmas.
Christmas Swims – remember winter conditions – cold water temperatures – rough water – strong currents – swollen rivers and lakes - short days. Is it safe for you to take the plunge? Are you able to swim? Is your swim properly organised and supervised? Are you prepared for winter conditions? Are you going to refrain from drinking alcohol or eating meals before you take a dip? If the answer is NO to any of these questions, do not take the plunge this Christmas. Enjoy the holiday and stay safe.
Check out our Safety on the Water website at http://www.safetyonthewater.ie where you can view guidelines and advice on most forms of water activity. The site has links to the Irish Coast Guard and Maritime Safety Directorate of the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, Royal National Lifeboat Institution, Irish Sailing Association, Bord Iascaigh Mhara, Irish Water Safety, Waterways Ireland and the Health & Safety Authority. There is a wealth of information available to water users of all descriptions through this website and its links.
If you see someone in difficulty on the water – dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.
For further media information, please contact:
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Grace Cappock
Press Advisor
Office: +353 1 678 2440
Mobile: 087 202 4971 |
Tom Mc Loughlin
Press Officer
Office +353 1 678 2441
Mobile: 087 937 0780 |
Tel: +353-1-6782443 ¨ Fax: +353-1-6782739 ¨ E-Mail: press.office@dcmnr.gov.ie