Irish agencies warn of rising water dangers this bank holiday
As Storm Austen approaches, Irish Coast Guard, Water Safety Ireland, and the RNLI urge extreme caution around coastal and inland waters this bank holiday weekend. With shorter daylight and colder temperatures, the public is advised to prioritise safety amid worsening weather conditions.
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Gov.ie / MerrionStreet
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⏱️ 1 min read
With Storm Austen set to batter parts of Ireland this October Bank Holiday weekend, the Irish Coast Guard, Water Safety Ireland, and the RNLI are issuing serious warnings about water safety. The combination of shortening daylight hours, dropping water temperatures, and fierce winds and rains raises significant risks for those near coastal or inland waters.
These organisations reflect on the busiest summer ever recorded for search and rescue operations, expressing gratitude to frontline emergency personnel, lifeguards, volunteers, and rescue teams who faced relentless challenges throughout the season. The storm warning heightens concerns, especially for visitors to exposed cliffs, seafronts, and piers where conditions will be treacherous.
Those planning to swim or enjoy coastal walks are urged to avoid entering water during stormy conditions, to use recognised safe swimming spots, and never swim alone. The risks of cold-water shock and hypothermia increase as temperatures fall, so swimmers should limit time in the water and wear suitable gear, including wetsuits and brightly coloured safety equipment. In emergencies, contact the Coast Guard via marine VHF radio channel 16 or call 999 or 112 immediately.
These organisations reflect on the busiest summer ever recorded for search and rescue operations, expressing gratitude to frontline emergency personnel, lifeguards, volunteers, and rescue teams who faced relentless challenges throughout the season. The storm warning heightens concerns, especially for visitors to exposed cliffs, seafronts, and piers where conditions will be treacherous.
Those planning to swim or enjoy coastal walks are urged to avoid entering water during stormy conditions, to use recognised safe swimming spots, and never swim alone. The risks of cold-water shock and hypothermia increase as temperatures fall, so swimmers should limit time in the water and wear suitable gear, including wetsuits and brightly coloured safety equipment. In emergencies, contact the Coast Guard via marine VHF radio channel 16 or call 999 or 112 immediately.
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