Water safety organisations are urging people to act safely around bodies of water ahead of the May bank holiday weekend.
With warm weather forecast for the long weekend, the Coast Guard, RNLI and Water Safety Ireland have issued a joint water safety appeal.
There has been a seasonable increase in the overall number of search and rescue incidents, with activity levels similar to recent years.
Despite the warm weather, water temperature is to remain frigid and it is possible for cold water shock to affect people of varying experience levels.
The three organisations are drawing particular attention to the need for people involved in sea kayaking and similar activities to receive proper training before going on the water, to carry a reliable means of calling for help and to tell someone where they are going and what time they will be back.
Kevin Rahill, RNLI Water Safety Lead, recommended that people check their equipment and have their life jackets serviced annually.
"Not everyone intends to end up in the water. If you fall in unexpectedly, remember to 'Float to Live' – lie on your back and spread your arms and legs, gently moving them to keep afloat.
"Keep floating until you feel your breath coming back before calling for help or swimming ashore if nearby," he said.
Swimmers are asked to consider wearing a wetsuit to stay warm in cold water, and also wear a bright swimming cap and to not swim alone.
People heading out on the water on boats or other crafts are advised to check the weather and tides before beginning their activities.
Micheál O'Toole, Irish Coast Guard Operations Manager, said: "It is important to have a means of communication if engaging in any water based activity.
"When boating, carry a VHF radio, backed up by flares PLB (Personal Locator Beacon) or EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon). Never solely rely on a mobile phone."
Water Safety Ireland's acting CEO Roger Sweeney urged people to swim within their depth and for children to be closely supervised.
He added: "Many recently arrived Ukrainians have never visited a beach and are unfamiliar with such stranding risks.
