Seven children aged 17 and under have drowned in Ireland in just eight weeks

Forty-two people have died from drowning in Ireland so far this year, including seven children aged 17 and under in just a matter of eight weeks.

As World Drowning Prevention Day takes place today on Friday, 25th July, these tragic deaths have been remembered and people have been urged to heed water safety advice in order to help save lives.

Ireland experiences an average of 116 drownings each year and as many people are currently enjoying their summer holidays, now is an important time to remind people of the need to be water safe this summer.

Minister of State at the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Jerry Buttimer, has called on everyone to follow water safety advice and share it to save lives. The appeal follows the spate of tragic drownings in which seven children lost their lives from drowning in just eight weeks.

In expressing his condolences to the families, Minister Buttimer highlighted the importance of having a water safety conversation with loved ones before going to our waterways.

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The Minister said: "Every life lost to drowning is a tragedy that can be prevented. Friday, July 25th is World Drowning Prevention Day, a day when we remember those lost to drowning. By talking to family and friends about simple steps - like swimming in lifeguarded areas or wearing a lifejacket - we can create a culture of safety that saves lives."

Minister Buttimer made the comments at the opening of a Lifeguard Training Centre in Creevy, Donegal which will serve as a vital hub for water safety training, and lifesaving education.

He continued: "My heart goes out to every family impacted by drowning. Every life is precious and our waters are an amazing resource, yet we average 116 drownings every year. So far this year, 42 people have drowned in Ireland.

"Summer is when our waterways are busiest, and the risk is highest. I appeal to everyone to enjoy our wonderful aquatic environments but to please make every effort to swim at a lifeguarded waterway or in areas that are traditionally known to be safe. Swim within your depth and stay within your depth and supervise children closely. If you are boating, please always wear a personal flotation device."

Water Safety Ireland has issued advice for everyone taking to the waterways this summer in order to keep safe. To begin with, they advise that when you get to a waterway, draw an imaginary line on the ground and before you cross it, assess the risk and keep the following in mind for a safe and enjoyable time:

1. Swim at Lifeguarded Waterways: Choose beaches and swimming areas where lifeguards are present. All are listed at https://watersafety.ie/lifeguards/. If there is no lifeguarded waterway nearby, swim in areas known locally to be safe.
2. Supervise Children Constantly: Always keep a close watch on children near water. They need constant, uninterrupted, adult supervision.
3. Avoid Alcohol: Do not consume alcohol before or during water activities.
4. Check Weather and Tides: Look up local weather conditions and tidal information before leaving home.
5. Wear a Lifejacket: Ensure lifejackets are worn when boating or participating in water sports.
6. Be Cautious of Currents: Understand and respect the power of currents and tides. If caught in a rip current, swim parallel to shore until you break free.
7. Avoid Swimming Alone: Always have someone accompany you when swimming.
8. If you see someone in difficulty in the water, never hesitate to call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.