The Irish Coast Guard, RNLI and Water Safety Ireland are joining forces ahead of World Drowning Prevention Day on Saturday, 25th July, as emergency teams respond to one of their busiest months in years.
With warm weather bringing more people to beaches, rivers and lakes, the organisations are urging the public to take extra care and support this year’s campaign to reduce drowning deaths.
The theme for World Drowning Prevention Day 2026 is ‘Unite to turn the tide’ with a call on every sector and every level of society to unite to reduce drowning by 35% by 2035.
To date this year, 37 people have lost their lives in Irish waters, with each tragedy leaving a devastating and lasting impact on families, friends and communities.
Recent warm weather has brought significantly more people to Ireland’s beaches, rivers, lakes and coastline, leading to a sharp increase in demand for Coast Guard services and Lifeguard interventions. So far this year, the Coast Guard has coordinated more than 1,700 incidents, resulting in 385 lives saved and over 1,600 people assisted. The scale of demand is reflected in the second week of July alone, when the Coast Guard coordinated 140 incidents, one of the highest incident totals recorded in a single week.
As the organisations reflect on an exceptionally busy summer period, they are urging everyone planning activities on or near the water to be prepared, understand the risks, and take simple steps to help ensure that everyone returns home safely.
If you are taking part in activities on or near the water, remember to:
- Check weather forecasts and tide times before heading out.
- If walking along the shoreline, remain alert to rising tides, which can quickly lead to stranding.
- Choose lifeguarded beaches where possible, always swim with others, and stay within your depth.
- Be aware of rip currents, which can rapidly carry even strong swimmers away from shore.
- Warm weather does not mean safe water. Cold water can cause cold-water shock, significantly increasing the risk of drowning. Enter the water slowly to allow your body to adjust.
- Ensure children are kept under constant, uninterrupted supervision near water.
- Avoid alcohol before swimming, operating watercraft, or spending time near the water.
- Always wear a lifejacket or buoyancy aid when participating in activities on the water.
- Pay attention to all water safety signs, flags and local warnings.
- Tell someone ashore about your plans and expected return time.
- Always carry a means of calling for help, such as a fully charged mobile phone or a marine VHF radio.
If you see somebody in trouble on the water or along the coast or think that they are in trouble, use marine VHF radio Ch 16 or dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.
