The Irish Coast Guard, Water Safety Ireland & RNLI Issue Joint Water Safety Appeal for St. Patrick’s Day Weekend

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As communities across the country prepare to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day weekend, the Irish Coast Guard, Water Safety Ireland, and the RNLI are issuing a joint appeal urging the public to stay safe in, on, and near the water.

Recent national data shows that 65% of accidental drownings were preceded by land‑based activities, including walking, angling, and hiking. With increased footfall around coasts, rivers, and lakes during the bank holiday, all three organisations are asking people to keep water safety at the forefront of their plans.

With many parades, events, and increased traffic around coastal roads, harbours, riversides, and canals, the organisations are also issuing specific safety guidance for motorists: The recommendation is to avoid parking too close to water tides can rise quickly and storm surges or wakes from passing vessels may flood areas unexpectedly.

Key Water Safety Advice for the Weekend

  • Never mix alcohol with water activities, or when walking near water.
  • Check weather conditions and tide times before heading out. Sudden changes and high tides can create hazardous conditions and may leave walkers stranded.
  • Carry a reliable means of communication, such as a fully charged mobile phone, VHF radio, or Personal Locator Beacon (PLB).
  • Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
  • Wear a suitable Personal Flotation Device (PFD) for any water based activity, including shoreline angling.
  • Stay well back from edges during cliff and coastal walks and be mindful of erosion or storm related changes to paths.

I would like to acknowledge and recognise the exceptional service provided by the fleet of Sikorsky S‑92a and S61 helicopters fleet, and by the CHC crews who have operated Ireland’s search and rescue service for more than two decades. Their work has played a vital role in saving lives, providing day and night time emergency helicopter support to maritime and inland communities, sometimes in extremely challenging conditions I am pleased to note that many of the very experienced personnel will continue to work with Bristow Ireland , thus ensuring that the State will continue to benefit from their knowledge and commitment to Coast Guard aviation.

Minister of State with responsibility for the Irish Coast Guard, Sean Canney

Emergency

If you see somebody in trouble on the water or along the coast or think they are in trouble; Dial 112 or 999 or use VHF radio CH 16 and ask for the Coast Guard.

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