Deputy Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran is urging the public, and in particular parents with children, to exercise caution when it comes to water as we enter the traditional holiday season.
“August is traditionally the start of holidays for many families and I just want to urge everyone to have a safe time, particularly around water,” Deputy Moran said.
“August is also the month when outdoor swimming is the most popular and, unfortunately, it brings danger also. Parents in particular need to know where their children are if they are playing near water as drownings can happen very quickly,” said Deputy Moran, speaking at a function in Lough Ree Yacht Club on Thursday (July 28 ).
Deputy Moran said that according to the Irish Water Safety Council, the vast majority of drownings occur close to the victim’s home. “Tragically the figures also reveal that young males are particularly at risk, reflected in the fact that 91 of the drowning victims last year were male, with 45 of those accidental drownings in the 20-59 age category.
“It is a sobering thought that 30 children aged 14 and under have drowned in the last 10 years and the loss of a child is something that no parent will ever get over,” said Deputy Moran.
“Children and teenagers love water and parents must be vigilant at all times to protect their children from the dangers of water by educating them and then supervising them at all times.
“I have witnessed young children and young teens diving off places at Coosan Point in Athlone and unfortunately their parents may not know that they are even there,” he added.
