Water SafetyThink you’re safe? Think

again!

Did you know?

Bet you didn’t know that on average 160 people drown in Ireland each year? Most of these tragic deaths happen inland, in rivers and lakes, on farms and in and around homes

and these accidents are preventable. Swim in safe areas only, for your life…

What do we do?• Remember, in an emergency, call 999

or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard. • Always swim parallel to the shore

when there is a current.• Keep calm if you are swept out to sea

and don’t panic – that’s how people stop breathing…

• If you can stand up, wade instead of swimming.

Remember!

• At the seaside, remember to always think SAFE…

• S Spot the dangersA Always go with a friendF Find and read the safety signs and flagsE Emergency! Stick your hand up and shout, tell a lifeguard or dial 999 or 112 for the Coast Guard

ICE SAFETY• Water’s not the only thing you can damage

yourself with….• In the last 10 years over twenty people have

drowned after falling through ice into water, while many others have had to be rescued and revived. Children are obviously attracted to frozen lakes and canals as they present natural ice skating opportunities, that’s why it’s mostly kids who get hurt and die, and they are at big risk. BE SAFE. DON’T DO ANYTHING STUPID.

Aaaah! I’m Drowning!!• Remain calm.• Kick with your legs if possible.• Look for something to grab onto.• If you cannot grab something, try to move yourself to the

edge of the pool or dock.• Don’t forget to try standing up in the water; it may be

shallower than you think.• If self-rescue is not possible, shout and get attention.• Wave your arms above your head to make yourself more

visible.• When the rescuers approach, try to grab a rescue line, not

the rescuer.• Listen to what the rescuers tell you to do and do it.

BY

Alana Horgan