With forecasts of continued dry and warm weather over the coming days and June Bank Holiday Weekend, members of the public are being urged to be extra vigilant when participating in water-based activities.
The good weather has seen a significant increase in the number of people taking to Clare’s waterways on leisure crafts and boats, as well as to the water at bathing locations throughout the County.
Claire McGrath, Water Safety Development Officer with Clare County Council, is asking people to swim only in lifeguarded areas denoted by the lifeguard flags – red over yellow flags.
She said, “I would urge members of the public to observe notices on any beach or where they want to swim, and to observe the lifeguard’s rules and regulations regarding off limit swimming locations. Anyone who sees a water user in difficulty should summon help immediately. Children should be supervised at all times when near water, while people should also be wary of the locations of ringbuoys.”
Regarding those taking to Clare’s waterways on leisure crafts and boats, Ms McGrath said,“Before entering the water, people are advised to check local weather conditions. People are also asked to wear correctly maintained and fitting lifejackets that are suitable for the activity and to ensure their craft is fit for purpose. Under no circumstances should alcohol be consumed prior to entering the water.”
Members of the public are requested to report any damaged, stolen, missing or retrieved ringbuoys via www.ringbuoys.ie, or by contacting Claire McGrath on 065-6846470.
Lifeguard cover will be provided from 11am to 7pm this Saturday, Sunday and Monday at Clare’s Blue Flag beaches in Spanish Point, Lahinch, Spanish Point, Fanore, Whitestrand Doonbeg, Ballycuggeran, Mountshannon, Cappagh Pier, Kilkee and Whitestrand Miltown Malbay. Cover will continue on Saturdays and Sundays during the month of June. There will be full-time time cover at these locations as well as at Bishops Quarter (Ballyvaughan) and Seafield Quilty during the months of July and August
A native of Ennis, Colin McGann has been editor of The Clare Champion since August 2020. Former editor of The Clare People, he is a journalism and communications graduate of Dublin Institute of Technology.