Kilrush RNLI Warns Time Is Of The Essence In Preventing Water Deaths This Weekend

Clare FM

A Clare branch of the RNLI is warning the public that time is of the essence it comes to preventing water-related deaths this weekend. An inter-agency appeal has been launched to encourage water safety and preparedness over the coming summer months. Coinciding with the May bank holiday weekend, Water Safety Ireland, the Irish Coast Guard and the RNLI are jointly appealing to people heading back to the coast to exercise caution when planning water-related activities. If on a boat or water vessel, the advice is to wear a lifejacket, carry a reliable means of communication, keep a mobile phone in a watertight case and ensure someone knows when you're going and when you intend to be back. When planning activities on the water, people are again advised to carry an effective means of communication, assess weather and environmental conditions in advance, and seek help immediately if you or someone else appears to be in trouble. Swimmers, meanwhile, are encouraged to wear a wetsuit to stay warm, allow yourself to acclimatise to the water temperature slowly, wear a bright swimming cap and crucially, never swim alone. Charlie Glynn of Kilrush RNLI says when someone is in distress, "minutes and seconds" make all the difference. Other advice includes checking boats and watercraft such as kayaks and canoes are in good working order. It's also recommended that lifejackets are inspected to ensure they're fully effective. Clare Water Safety Officer Clare McGrath is reminding the public that the majority of water-related accidents happen when people don't intend to be in the water.