Despite a shocking average of 13 drownings occurring in Ireland every month, Irish Water Safety have advised that this tragic figure will decrease if the public observes a responsibility to protect themselves, their family and friends from the dangers of cold shock, hypothermia and drowning.

John Leech, CEO of Irish Water Safety, this week warned about the increased risk of water related accidents and tragedies, as the number of people taking to activities in and around water has increased.

"Approximately 70,000 yacht and boat enthusiasts will take to our waters this weekend for leisure. Thousands more will go swimming, diving, angling, canoeing, surfing, windsurfing and kite surfing. Others are at risk as they walk adjacent to our shoreline and inland waterways."

"Water temperatures are 15°C on average around our coastline, with freshwater being a few degrees cooler. Aquatic users should be aware that their bodies may not be acclimatised and they should not stay too long in the water. It is always advisable to throw some water down the back of your neck before entering the water."

Lifeguards are now on beaches and bathing places nationwide, with most of Galway's most popular beached being guarded including Ladies Beach, Salthill; Blackrock, Salthill; Silverstrand; Ballyloughane, Renmore; Grattan Road, Salthill and Palmers Rock, Salthill.

On fine weather days, lifeguard coverage is from 11am to 9pm, and beaches in the county are also being monitored including Furbo; Spiddal Road, Spiddal, Spiddal Pier; Knock/Inverin; Carraroe; Tracht; Loughrea, Long Point; Portumna On the Shannon; Inis Oirr, Aran Islands; Roundstone and Banagher On the Shannon.

"Alcohol is a contributory factor in almost 30 per cent of drownings, therefore I ask the public to exercise common sense when consuming alcohol. There are ringbuoys in most public areas around the country erected by the Local Authorities and Harbour Authorities and they can be an effective aid when attempting to save somebody in distress. Never enter the water alone and only do so with support and if you are a trained lifesaver. Children are fascinated and attracted to water; it is critical that adults supervise children at all times around water. In water safety terms, staying SAFE is to Stay Away From the Edge," warned Mr Leech.

For more information on lifeguarded bathing places, click on www.iws.ie/bathing-places-page.html.

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