Joanne Walsh, CEO of Water Safety Ireland, Joanna Cullen, Assistant Secretary, Irish Coast Guard and Linda-Gene Byrne, RNLI Regional Water Safety Lead are asking communities to ‘PAUSE’ on World Drowning Prevention Day
He also extended gratitude to the volunteers from these organisations, saying, “I want to thank our incredible volunteers from the Coast Guard, Water Safety Ireland, the RNLI, and Community Inshore Rescue Boats for always being willing to serve their local communities in times of need. Their commitment to go above and beyond is truly admirable.”
The Minister, along with the Irish Coast Guard, Water Safety Ireland, and the RNLI, recommends that everyone planning to engage in water activities this summer should remember to PAUSE:
– Plan your activity and necessary equipment, including sun protection. Inform someone of your plans and expected return time.
– Always bring means to communicate distress, sufficient drinking water, and the appropriate equipment. Know how to use this equipment and always wear a lifejacket or personal flotation device.
– Use available sources to check the weather and tides before heading out.
– Seek help immediately if you or someone else is in trouble by calling 999/112 or using VHF Radio – Channel 16 and asking for the Coast Guard.
Kevin Whitney, Operations Manager with the Irish Coast Guard, highlighted the day’s significance: “World Drowning Prevention Day is another opportunity to emphasise the importance of water safety and help decrease the number of incidents on the water. Planning and preparing for each activity will contribute to a safer time on the water.”
Roger Sweeney, Deputy CEO of Water Safety Ireland, pointed out that more than half of accidental drownings followed land-based activities: “On average, ten people drown in Ireland every month. Mark World Drowning Prevention Day by having a water safety conversation with loved ones about the importance of staying away from edges, wearing a lifejacket when boating or angling from shore, and learning swimming and lifesaving skills.”
Linda-Gene Byrne, RNLI Water Safety Lead, reminded everyone of the “Float to Live” message: “We know the coast and inland waters are going to be incredibly busy over the summer holidays. On World Drowning Prevention Day, we want to remind everyone to remember the float to live message. If you get into trouble in the water, Float to Live; tilt your head back with ears submerged, relax, and control your breathing. Use your hands to help you stay afloat, then call for help or swim to safety if you can.”
If you see someone in trouble on the water or along the coast, use Marine VHF Ch 16 or dial 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.
Source: Press Release
