Water safety warning issued as temperatures reach 30 degrees

Swimmers hoping to enjoy the good weather over the next few days are being urged to use the water safely.

Temperatures are expected to hit the 30 degree mark today. Co Carlow saw the best of the weather yesterday, with the mercury topping 28.7 degrees.

CEO of Irish Water Safety, Roger Sweeney, says people need to avoid unsupervised bathing areas.

"Thousands of people are enjoying warmer weather activities at waterways nationwide. But there is always a danger that people will drown, even in close proximity to shore and actually drown close to other water users," he said.

"So we are asking people to avoid unsupervised bathing areas, please - to swim at an area that has a lifeguard, and to always keep an eye on children."