Public urged to take extra care around water as Storm Austen approaches Mayo

People planning coastal walks, sea swims and outdoor activities in Mayo over the October bank holiday weekend are being urged to take extra care as Storm Austen approaches and conditions around the coast become more hazardous.

The Irish Coast Guard, Water Safety Ireland and the RNLI have issued a joint safety reminder, highlighting the risks posed by strong winds, heavy rain, falling water temperatures and shorter daylight hours.

The warning comes after the busiest summer on record for search and rescue incidents, while thanking frontline emergency personnel, lifeguards, rescue volunteers and teams for their work during a particularly demanding season.

With Mayo’s coastline, beaches and piers popular with walkers and swimmers throughout the year, the organisations are encouraging people to plan ahead and be aware of changing conditions.

Storm Austen is expected to bring strong winds and heavy rain over the coming days, increasing the risks for anyone visiting exposed coastal locations.

Those planning cliff, beach or coastal walks are advised to check weather forecasts and tide times before setting out and to be aware of the possibility of being cut off by incoming tides.

Walkers should keep well back from cliff edges and unstable ground, carry a fully charged mobile phone and let someone know their plans.

Swimmers urged to take extra precautions

Swimmers are also advised to avoid entering the water during stormy weather or whenever strong winds, waves or currents make conditions unsafe.

As the lifeguard season has ended and daylight hours continue to shorten, anyone choosing to swim is urged to use recognised safe swimming locations, avoid swimming alone and leave the water before darkness falls.

Falling sea temperatures also bring additional risks, including cold-water shock, hypothermia and reduced swimming ability.

Swimmers are advised to keep their time in the water short and use appropriate equipment, including a wetsuit, brightly coloured swim cap and tow float.

Know how to raise the alarm

The Coast Guard, RNLI and Water Safety Ireland are reminding the public that anyone who sees a person in difficulty in the water or along the coast, or suspects someone may be in trouble, should raise the alarm immediately.

People should call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard, or use marine VHF radio on Channel 16.

Everyone in Mayo is encouraged to enjoy the bank holiday weekend responsibly, check conditions before heading outdoors and avoid taking unnecessary risks around the water.