The Irish Coast Guard, RNLI and Water Safety Ireland 'Unite to Turn the Tide' For World Drowning Prevention Day

The Irish Coast Guard, RNLI and Water Safety Ireland are joining together ahead of World Drowning Prevention Day tomorrow, to remember all those who have tragically lost their lives in Irish waters. July 2026 is on course to be one of the busiest months in many years, with record levels of activity and numerous callouts for teams on the coast and on inland waterways. 

The theme for World Drowning Prevention Day 2026 is ‘Unite to turn the tide’ with a call on every sector and every level of society to unite to reduce drowning by 35% by 2035. 

To date this year, 37 people have lost their lives in Irish waters, with each tragedy leaving a devastating and lasting impact on families, friends and communities. 

The Deputy CEO of Water Safety Ireland, Roger Sweeney spoke to Radio Nova:

“World Drowning Prevention Day is actually a really good reminder for all of us to have a simple water safety conversation with our loved ones before setting off for a beach, river or lake. Just take a minute to talk about where we’re going, what time we’ll be back, how you'll stay safe, who’s watching the children, and what you would do if something doesn't go to plan - these conversations can make a big difference.”

The recent warm weather has brought more people to the Irish beaches, rivers, lakes and coastline, which has seen a sharp increase in demand for Irish Coast Guard services and Lifeguard interventions.

 

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Sweeney continued:

“We have seen a very busy July at waterways, all over the country. The warm weather has brought record numbers of people to beaches, rivers and lakes and of course, the risk increases in July, because that's when most people are taking their first dip of the year. It’s important to remember that warm weather does not equal safe water.” 

So far this year, the Irish Coast Guard has coordinated 1,728 incidents, compared to 1557 for the same period in 2025, resulting in 385 lives saved and 1617 persons assisted. 140 incidents were coordinated by the Irish Coast Guard during the second week of July, resulting in 20 lives saved, 197 persons assisted. There were 43 incidents on Sunday, the 12th July alone. 

There has been a 25% increase in incidents July 2026 to date against the same period 2025.

“Unfortunately, over one hundred people lose their lives to drowning in Ireland every year, but those tragedies are preventable.”

Ahead of World Drowning Prevention Day, the organisations have set out guidelines for civilians who are planning on heading to the water. They are urging everyone planning activities on or near the water to be prepared, understand the risks, and take simple steps to help ensure that everyone returns home safely:

• Check weather forecasts and tide times before heading out.
• If walking along the shoreline, remain alert to rising tides, which can quickly lead to stranding.
• Choose lifeguarded beaches where possible, always swim with others, and stay within your depth.

Sweeney highlights how, trained Lifeguard have been authorized by Water Safety Ireland and will be there to intervene during an accident at sea:

“Lifeguards have been involved in hundreds of interventions this summer and will be there for you if you get into trouble in the water- make sure to stay within the yellow flags so a lifeguard can keep an eye on you.”

• Be aware of rip currents, which can rapidly carry even strong swimmers away from shore.
• Warm weather does not mean safe water. Cold water can cause cold-water shock, significantly increasing the risk of drowning. Enter the water slowly to allow your body to adjust.
• Ensure children are kept under constant, uninterrupted supervision near water.
• Avoid alcohol before swimming, operating watercraft, or spending time near the water.
• Always wear a lifejacket or buoyancy aid when participating in activities on the water.
• Pay attention to all water safety signs, flags and local warnings.
• Tell someone ashore about your plans and expected return time.
• Always carry a means of calling for help, such as a fully charged mobile phone or a marine VHF radio.

Roger Sweeney, urges people to be aware of the possibility of drowning stating:

“Drowning is often silent and can happen in minutes- stay aware of your children at all times.”

World Drowning Prevention Day 2026 will take place tomorrow, Saturday the 25th of July.