Water safety alert as hot spell continues

More than 10 people die from drowning every month, according to Irish Water Safety, which has urged vigilance across Ireland’s swimming spots for National Water Safety Awareness Week.

The campaign coincides with a spell of warm weather which, so far, has seen thousands flock to beaches, lakes, and rivers.

However, statistics released by Irish Water Safety show that while 40% of people live within 5km of the coast, the majority of drownings (62%) take place inland at rivers and lakes.