RNLI issues critical water safety warning, as hot weather predicted to continue
Advice comes just days after Buncrana teenagers tragically drowned in Lough Swilly
The RNLI is urging members of the public to follow important lifesaving advice if they are planning to be on or near the water, with sunshine predicted to last through the weekend.
The advice comes just days after Buncrana teenage boys – Matt Sibanda (18) and Emmanuel Familola (16) – tragically drowned in Lough Swilly after entering the water at Ned’s Point.
The RNLI advice is to: Always wear a lifejacket or suitable flotation device for your activity; Know how to float in an emergency; Always carry a means of calling for help such as a VHF radio or mobile phone in a waterproof pouch and keep it on you.
Swimmers and boaters should also check the weather forecast and tide times before venturing out, while you should always tell someone where you are going and when you are due back.
If you see someone in trouble or get into difficulty yourself, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.
Linda-Gene Byrne, RNLI Water Safety Lead, has cautioned: “With more hot weather forecast, we expect many people to head to the coast or our inland waterways to make the most of the fine conditions. In doing so, we are urging the public to remember some water safety advice which could be lifesaving.”
“We want people to be aware of the dangers, to know their limits, and not to take risks. Go with others and look out for each other. Make sure your phone is charged so you can call for help if you come across anyone who needs it.”
Ms Byrne said water users should check the weather and tide times before they go out, as tides can go in and out very rapidly in some areas, causing people to become cut off, or quickly out of their depth.
She warned: “Rip currents, which are channels of fast-flowing water running out to sea, can be difficult to spot and can catch out even the most confident and prepared swimmers. If you find yourself being swept out to sea in a rip, stay calm – don’t panic. If you can stand, wade. Don’t try to swim. Raise your hand and shout for help loudly. Don’t swim directly against the rip or you’ll get exhausted. Swim parallel to the beach until free of the rip, then make for shore.”
The RNLI spokesperson added: “If you find yourself unexpectedly in the water and in difficulty, know how to Float to Live. The best way to do this is to tilt your head back with your ears submerged. Try to relax and breathe normally. You can gently move your hands to help you stay afloat if you need to. Spread your arms and legs out to improve stability – and it’s okay if your legs sink, we all float differently. Once your breathing is under control, call for help or swim to safety.”