Kildare Fire service warn of dangers of swimming in rivers and lakes during the warm weather

By Kim O'Leary

For many of us unaccustomed to the heatwave conditions with temperatures expected to reach as high as 30 degrees Celsious today, it can be difficult knowing how best to cool off but Kildare people are being warned of the dangers of taking a swim in the county's rivers and canals.

Kildare Fire Service recently participated in a refreshers course in Swift Water Safety in preparation for the warm weather, and they have provided useful tips for people to stay safe during the good weather.

Taking to social media, Kildare Fire Service said: "As we are experiencing this beautiful sunny weather outside, we are in the middle of refreshers for our Kildare crews in Swift Water Training. But while we are being trained on how treacherous and dangerous the power of water can be, we ask you to stay safe if swimming anywhere during the hot spell."

Some tips for staying safe during the heatwave if you intend to go for a swim includes:

Do not swim near Lock gates on canals
If you notice a lifebuoy missing, please report this immediately as lifebuoys close to bodies of water is proven to save lives
Do not enter the water if you are not a competent swimmer
Make sure to have someone stay onshore to raise alarm if needed
Have a phone close by also.

For more information and advice on water safety visit Irish Water Safety at http://www.iws.ie/