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People urged to take care around water during hot weather

According to Irish Water Safety, 62% of drownings occur at inland water sites
According to Irish Water Safety, 62% of drownings occur at inland water sites

People have been urged to take extra care around water ahead of the expected spell of warm weather.

Temperatures are forecast to be in the mid to high 20s over the coming days, with the country set to enjoy an extended period of sunshine.

Speaking on RTÉ's Morning Ireland, John Leech, the CEO of Irish Water Safety, said that in particular he would appeal to parents of teenagers to know where their children are at all times.

He said that during the last warm spell, which started on 23 May, ten people drowned in 15 days.

This compared to a similar period of good weather in July 2013 when 13 people drowned in 14 days.

The recent spate of deaths included 15-year-olds Shay Moloney and Jack Kenneally, who drowned after getting into difficulty while swimming in a quarry on the Tulla Road near Ennis, Co Clare on 31 May.

According to Irish Water Safety, 62% of drownings occur at inland water sites, where it can be difficult to see the bottom and for swimmers to know if they are out of their depth.

Irish Water Safety also said that people should never swim in quarries or reservoirs.

Mr Leech said that those taking to the water in the coming days should only do so at designated bathing sites, where lifeguards are on duty and safety equipment is present.

He also urged anyone taking part in water-based activities to wear a lifejacket, despite the high temperatures.

Cold water shock remains a major factor in drowning in Ireland, he said, and lifejackets help to combat the threat.

Alcohol is a contributing factor in 30% of drownings and people are being urged not to combine swimming and alcohol during the warm weather.

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Meanwhile, the Irish Cancer Society is urging the public to take measures to protect their skin during the sunny weather.

The organisation's Cancer Prevention Manager Kevin O'Hagan said: "It is especially important to protect babies and children as much of the UV damage that leads to skin cancer takes place in the early years of life."

People are advised to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during the middle of the day when UV rays are at their strongest.

The Irish Cancer Society also recommends staying covered up, including wearing a hat, and also recommends wearing sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30.