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Thousands are expected to take part in sea swims across the country on Christmas day. Leah Farrell/Rolling News

Irish Coast Guard urges sea swimmers and coastal walkers to 'put safety first' over Christmas

The Irish Coast Guard issued a joint statement with Water Safety Ireland and the RNLI, urging caution in or near water for the festive period.

IRISH WATER SAFETY groups have issued a joint appeal to sea swimmers and coastal walkers over Christmas, urging caution in or near water and at the coast across the country.

Thousands of swimmers are set to brave the chilly waters on Christmas morning, with thousands more expected to wrap up for a festive walk on Wednesday.

The Irish Coast Guard, Water Safety Ireland and the RNLI are jointly urging people to be mindful of the potential risks and be aware of their personal safety in planning and participating in any water-based or coastal activities.

Those taking part in winter dips or swims are advised to check the weather and tides, wear bright clothing, never swim alone and to stay warm before and after entering the water.

For those planning on enjoying a festive coastal walk, the advice is to stay well back from stormy seas and cliff edges, be aware of slippery paths and take a fully charged phone with you.

Clare McGrath, Water Safety Ireland’s Chair said it is important that everyone “plans and prepares accordingly” so they can enjoy themselves and come and go safely.

“Following simple tips such as checking the weather in advance, letting someone know where you are going and when you are due back and acclimatising slowly when entering the water when swimming or dipping, will all contribute to ensuring your overall safety,” McGrath said.

“For walkers and runners, it is important to know that tide times and heights can vary and can easily catch you out, so always check tables in advance to avoid getting cut off and stranded. While you’re out, be aware of your surroundings and the tide’s direction.”

The Coast Guard, Water Safety Ireland and RNLI will remain on call 24 hours a day over the Christmas period.

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18 Comments
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    Mute Freda Peeple
    Favourite Freda Peeple
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    Dec 23rd 2024, 9:58 AM

    Sea swimmer kit :
    Dryrobe
    Costa coffee cup
    Tesla model X
    2 kids called Fiadh and Tristan

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    Mute Freda Peeple
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    Dec 23rd 2024, 10:00 AM

    @Freda Peeple: I wasn’t drunk writing this, the journal doesn’t do bullet point format seemingly

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    Mute Fergus O'Donnell
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    Dec 23rd 2024, 10:07 AM

    @Freda Peeple: also with Birkenstocks and manbuns.

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    Mute wwvCLOuF
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    Dec 23rd 2024, 10:11 AM

    @Freda Peeple: Ha!, bang on. Very good.

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    Mute Freda Peeple
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    Dec 23rd 2024, 11:33 AM

    @J B: nice haha! That’s a foxrock royal flush, a whippet call Henry to top it off.

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    Mute James MC
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    Dec 23rd 2024, 3:04 PM

    @Freda Peeple: Costa is way too council estate for for Fiadh and Tristan’s parents.

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    Mute James MC
    Favourite James MC
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    Dec 23rd 2024, 3:08 PM

    Christmas. Commercialism and the meek amount of spirituality has been replaced with getting cold.

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