The Irish Coast Guard, RNLI and Water Safety Ireland have come together to issue a cold weather warning for water activities, as the freezing temperatures look here to stay for the week ahead.
The inter-agency water safety warning is urging people to be informed and not take chances.
A Status Yellow weather warning for low temperatures and ice remains in place for Ireland throughout this week, and has also been issued for parts of Northern Ireland.
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These conditions have prompted an urgent warning from the Irish Coast Guard, the RNLI and Water Safety Ireland about the added dangers of aquatic environments during this kind of weather and what considerations need to be taken when on or near water.
The first of which is to be cautious of bodies of water that have been frozen over at canals, lakes, ponds and flooded areas. The strong advice for everyone is to stay off the ice, as the thickness can vary and it will not withstand body weight.
Exercising caution when walking beside bodies of water is also important, as walkways could be “extremely” slippery and unsafe as a result of ice.
Keeping pets and young children away from the edges is also crucial. Deputy CEO of Water Safety Ireland, Roger Sweeney, said: “Children are naturally curious about walking on ice but parents should emphasize that it is not safe as the thickness can vary.
“This is why it is so important that adults provide uninterrupted, responsible supervision beside any waterway.”
Going for a Christmas swim is an important tradition for many people, but it is important that those planning for such an activity have the information they need to be safe.
Head of Operations at the Irish Coast Guard, Gerard O’Flynn, said: “Many people are looking forward to engaging in outdoor activities, including open water swimming or quick dips over the over the festive period, but please attend to your personal safety by carefully planning your intended activity.”
The current cold temperatures can have added risks for those looking to get into the sea or other bodies of water.
Advice from the three agencies is to avoid lakes that are covered or partially covered in ice and to be particularly considerate of these risks when inland.
Like any other swim, it’s important to check weather and tides prior to making plans. At this time of year, swimmers should be “particularly” mindful of strong wind currents.
The maritime organisations also recommend bringing a means of calling for help into to the water with you, such as a whistle or a mobile phone in a waterproof pouch.
A statement from the Irish Coast Guard, RNLI and Water Safety Ireland said: “When you go open water swimming, it is very important to acclimatise by entering the water slowly and allowing time for your body to get used to the cold.
“To help yourself acclimatise, splash the cold water on your neck and face.”
Sub-zero conditions may pose difficulty at entry and exit points, so walk slowly to avoid slipping.
Immediately put dry clothes and a hat on upon leaving the water to warm yourself up.
Lisa Hollingum, RNLI Water Safety Delivery Support, said: “Cold water shock is a very real possibility while winter swimming and dipping. Acclimatise before getting in, don’t stay in long and warm up as soon as you get out of the water. Look out for one another.”
As always, in an emergency, dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.
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