RNLI Reminds Public to Observe Water Safety During Prolonged Heatwave

As the sunshine continues and temperatures remain high into the weekend, the RNLI is stressing the importance of following basic water safety guidelines for anyone planning to spend time on or near the water.

RNLI’s key safety recommendations:

• Always wear a lifejacket or appropriate buoyancy aid for your chosen activity.

• Learn how to float if you find yourself in trouble.

• Carry a reliable way to summon help—such as a VHF radio or a mobile phone in a waterproof pouch—and keep it on your person.

• Check the weather forecast and tidal schedules before setting out.

• Inform someone of your plans, including where you’re headed and when you expect to return.

• If you see someone in difficulty, or if you get into trouble yourself, call 999 or 112 and request the Coast Guard / Coastguard.

Linda-Gene Byrne, RNLI Water Safety Lead said:
‘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 to not 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.

‘Where you can this weekend, choose a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags. RNLI lifeguards will be on patrol between 10am and 6pm on Benone, Portstewart, Portrush West Strand, Portrush East Strand, Whiterocks and Ballycastle.

‘Check the weather and tide times before you go – tides can go in and out very rapidly in some areas, causing people to become cut off, or quickly out of their depth – so find out the times of high and low tides before you set off.

‘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.

‘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 OK if your legs sink, we all float differently. Once your breathing is under control, call for help or swim to safety.’