Clare County Council Water Safety Development Officer is appealing to everyone planning coastal visits or activities on, in, or near the water in County Clare this May Bank Holiday Weekend to make safety their priority.
The Irish Coast Guard, Water Safety Ireland and the RNLI are also urging members of the public to keep safety at the forefront of their minds when engaging in water activities.
Maebh Collins said, “With more people expected to visit beaches, lakes, and rivers over the long weekend, now is the time to prioritise safety and enjoy their time responsibly.”
This May Bank Holiday Weekend period traditionally marks the start of the boating season, with many sailors and motorboat users returning their craft to the water after winter storage.
Boat owners are strongly advised to carry out essential pre‑launch checks, including the condition of the hull, engine, fuel system, steering, batteries, and onboard safety equipment such as fire extinguishers and communication devices.
Anyone sailing or motor-boating is reminded to always:
Check the weather forecast, wind conditions and tide times before going afloat.
Ensure an emergency action plan is in place and that all crew receive a safety briefing.
Inform a responsible person ashore of your plans and your expected return time.
Wear a suitable, correctly fitted lifejacket at all times.
Carry a reliable means of calling and signalling for help.
Have the appropriate level of training for your craft and activity.
Operate at a safe speed appropriate to the prevailing conditions and surroundings.
The Irish Coast Guard, Water Safety Ireland and the RNLI stress that preparation, situational awareness and having the right safety equipment saves lives.
For further guidance, water users are encouraged to consult the Code of Practice for the Safe Operation of Recreational Craft, which provides essential advice and best‑practice guidance for owners, operators and users of pleasure and recreational craft on Irish coastal and inland waters.
The Code of Practice is available to view or download at www.safetyonthewater.gov.ie. If you see somebody in trouble on the water or along the coast or think that they are in trouble, use marine VHF radio Ch 16 or dial 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.
Meanwhile, the ESB is reminding the public of the dangers of swimming in ESB reservoirs .
Given the recent spell of warm weather ahead of the May bank holiday weekend, ESB would like to remind the public of the dangers and potentially serious consequences of swimming in any ESB reservoir.
Henry Bouchier, Manager, Hydro Operations said: “It is important that people take note of the safety warnings which are visible on signs posted around ESB reservoirs. These areas are unsafe for swimming due to deep, fast-flowing waters, fluctuating water levels, and uneven terrain, which present significant hazards to the public.”
“To ensure your safety and the safety of others, always choose safer swimming locations such as swimming pools or beaches with designated lifeguards.”
These waters include the ESB reservoirs at the Ardnacrusha headrace and tailrace canal in County Clare
