Water Safety Ireland is reminding people to follow guidance around swimming in the sea during the warm weather and to be “responsible for themselves.”
The advice comes ahead of heatwave conditions forecast later this week, with larger crowds expected at beaches, reports RTE.
Water Safety Ireland CEO Joanne Walsh said inevitably large numbers will be on the beaches during this hot spell.
“Only swim at a time when lifeguards are on duty, swim in areas known to be safe and swim with someone,” she said, reports RTE.
She said it is “lifeguard season” so lifeguards will be on duty every day across certain beaches.
However, lifeguards are only present on certain beaches during specific times and it varies across counties, reports RTE.
She also warned about the basic knowledge around flags and said if someone sees a red flag, they should heed the warning of danger and “don’t get in the water.”
While many people swim all year round, she said many others getting into the sea need to be aware of the possible adverse reaction to cold water, reports RTE.
“Warm weather does not mean warm water in Ireland… be mindful of cold water and the possible shock,” she said.
Ms Walsh said many warnings need to be repeated, such as the importance of not consuming alcohol before entering the water, including when partaking in any water-based activities, reports RTE.
“Not while swimming or on any boats, jet skis… it reduces your reaction time and response time,” she said.
Over the coming days, Met Éireann has forecast a prolonged spell of warm weather with temperatures exceeding 25C, reports RTE.
An advisory from the forecaster, which is in effect until next Tuesday, states that daytime temperatures could climb to 30C in parts of the country, reports RTE.
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