Boating enthusiasts warned over high tides
Boating enthusiasts were tonight warned to take extra care over the Easter weekend when taking to sea with a full moon set to cause higher than normal spring tides.
John Leech, Irish Water Safety, said up to 43,800 people will head out on yachts and boats over the bank holiday with even more enjoying other sports on the water.
“This reflects the increasing numbers of people taking up water activities. Thousands more will go swimming, diving, angling, canoeing, surfing, windsurfing and kite surfing,” Mr Leech said.
“If you intend to enjoy our aquatic environment this Easter then make water safety your foremost concern.”
Mr Leech called on sailors to obey a few simple rules – always wear a life jacket, drink sensibly and watch out for dangerous sea conditions brought higher than normal tides.
The IWS said a full moon this Thursday night will cause spring tides bringing with it higher seas and more severe tidal streams.
Walkers were warned of the increased risk of becoming stranded along the coast while swimmers and divers have also been told to exercise caution on wreck or drift dives due to stronger than normal currents.
Sailors should also take extra care with strong tidal streams expected along with strong eddies caused by the winds pushing against high tides posing an increased risk for small boat users, the IWS said.
The IWS said each year Easter weekend sees a 15% increase in emergency call-outs for incidents involving pleasure craft.
And it said three factors would add to the dangers. Cold water with temperatures averaging nine degrees Celsius at the coast and freshwater a few degrees cooler. Alcohol, which plays a part in 30% of drowning, and children who are drawn to water through natural fascination.
Mr Leech warned swimmers that their bodies may not be acclimatised to the chilly temperatures and they should not stay too long in the water.
