The Irish Coast Guard urges members of the public, water users and other outdoor pursuit enthusiasts generally to be very careful over the Christmas Holidays. No matter what the activity is, think safety and obey the basic rules.
Although our seas, cliffs, shores, rivers, lakes, mountains and caves are beautiful, they can be dangerous in certain conditions. High seas, strong currents, swollen rivers and lakes, cold water, slippery rocks and wet or loose conditions under foot, bad weather, freezing and darkness all add to the risk. Be especially careful of children, as they will not realise the dangers.
Whether it’s canoeing, 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 when you will be back and never go out when darkness is approaching. Have a means of raising the alarm should you get into difficulty. 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 its 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.
Look up the Marine Safety Working Group’s web site at 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 web site and its links.
If you see some one in difficulty on the water or cliffs – dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.
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