The public is being asked to think ahead and ensure their safety amid the heatwave currently gripping Dublin.
A weather advisory for the entire county is in place for high temperatures with a yellow warning to kick in from tomorrow for Leinster and Munster. Health risks that face the public include heat exhaustion, heatstroke and cold-water shock while sun glare and using inflatables on the water also present risks.
Ways that the public can protect themselves include regularly and liberally apply sunscreen and staying out of direct sunlight. They can also wear light and loose-fitting clothing that covers their skin and make sure they drink enough water.
Read more: Warning for Dublin motorists over hazardous 'sun glare' amid heatwave
Kevin Rahill, RNLI Water Safety Lead, Roger Sweeney, Water Safety Ireland and Gerard O’Flynn, Irish Coast Guard in a joint statement said: "With the good weather and high temperatures forecast to last right through to the weekend, we want to remind everyone to attend to their personal safety. With so many people enjoying the water this summer, it’s important that we all know the risks.
"The sea can be unpredictable, and even with the temperatures soaring, the fact is that the water is still relatively cool compared to air temperatures. Just because an area looks safe for swimming it doesn’t mean that it is safe.
"Only swim in areas that are protected by lifeguards or in areas with which you are familiar. In the case of lifeguard protected beaches only swim between the red and yellow flags."
Roger Sweeney added: “Rip currents are difficult to spot but common on beaches and carry you out to sea quickly. If you do get caught in one, the advice is not to exhaust yourself trying to swim against it. Rather swim parallel to the beach until free of the narrow current and then head for shore”.
While Gerard O’Flynn added: “Record numbers are also taking to the water on crafts such as paddleboards and kayaks, many for the first time. It is important to always remember to wear a lifejacket or buoyancy aid and to take a means of calling for help.”
Top tips for how to keep cool:
- Minimise unnecessary heating - turn off central heating, electrical equipment and lights that are not needed.
- Use natural ventilation such as open windows when the air feels cooler outside than inside (e.g. at night) and where it is safe, secure and feasible to do so. Increase air flow through buildings wherever possible.
- Evaporative cooling – dampening your skin may help keep you cool.
- If you are using air conditioning, make sure it is using a fresh air supply, which is important to prevent spread of COVID-19.
- Electric fans need to be used with caution, as they may not be safe for higher temperatures and should not be used where a person may be incubating or a case of COVID-19.
Read more: Dublin weather latest as odds slashed for Ireland's hottest summer
If you go swimming be cautious and remember the rules:
- Swim with others, never alone
- Supervise children at all times
- Don’t stay in the water too long
- Wear a lifejacket when boating
- Swim close and parallel to shore
- Never swim after drifting objects
- Beware of hidden hazards and currents
- Swim between flags and be sure to know your flags at the beach or lake
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