Safety checks for anglers now

The tragedy involving three anglers on Lough Ree is a reminder to everyone who enjoys our lakes, rivers or seas of how very unforgiving, how very threatening adverse weather can be.

That warning is underlined by the fact that the anglers, all visitors from Armagh, were very familiar with the lake and were experienced boat handlers. Despite that they were no match for the difficult conditions and were quickly overcome by exposure and cold.

Everyone who uses a boat knows, or at least they should know, that tragedy like this is a real possibility. Because of this, safety precautions cannot be ignored or treated lightly.

As the days lengthen and the longer days of summer approach everyone with a boat, and many without one, is looking forward to going on the water. Before that moment arrives events in Lough Ree remind us all that now is the time to check that all appropriate safety measures are in place.