Minister urges public to heed public safety advice during “extremely hot” weather

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD has urged the public to heed public safety advice during the high temperatures currently being experienced across Ireland and due to continue over the coming days and nights.

The Minister emphasised:
“Of course the warm weather is welcome for us across the country. But we have to be aware of the risks of prolonged heat. I would urge everyone to keep up to date with official Met Éireann forecasts and warnings and to make sure that they take all appropriate precautions in relation to heat, water safety, thunderstorms and the possibility of localised flooding,” he said.

“Please take care in particular around water bodies like our lakes, rivers and the sea. Many of us naturally want to engage in recreational activities beside and in our water when the weather is good. But I am asking everyone, of all ages and all levels of experience with water, to please take care and take no chances. We can’t take safety around water for granted.
“I am also asking people to check in on neighbours particularly those who may be elderly or vulnerable in some way during particularly hot weather.”

Given the ongoing high temperatures, and the importance of hydration, Minister Browne said that he was engaging with Uisce Eireann to ensure water supplies remain as normal and available.

The Minister added:
“I am actively engaged with Uisce Éireann to review all elective works currently scheduled and, where works are non-urgent, that they be postponed until the period of extreme heat has passed. Certain groups – including older people and those with an illness – are particularly vulnerable during a heatwave and we need to avoid any unnecessary disruption to water supply at this time.”

A copy of the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management (NDFEM) advice during the current weather conditions are here.

Public Health is a significant consideration during high-temperature events, and the public is advised to:

• Stay in the shade
• Avoid going out or partaking in strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Apply UVA and UVB sunscreen to skin that is not covered, factor 30+ for adults and 50+ for children

The Health Services Executive (HSE) have specific and comprehensive advice on staying safe in hot weather, and this can be accessed at the following address.
https://healthservice.hse.ie/staff/procedures-guidelines/staying-safe-in-hot-weather/
Water Safety
The Irish Coast Guard, Water Safety Ireland, Waterways Ireland and the RNLI are urging the public to stay safe and remember that water safety is not just about swimming or water sports. It is relevant to everyday activities such as coastal walks, cycling beside canals, angling, or visiting parks and beaches with family. Drowning data shows that most accidental drownings (65%) follow land-based activities such as walking, angling, cycling, or simply spending time near the water. Now is the time for families and communities to have important conversations about staying safe near water. Awareness is a Lifesaver.
For more water safety information, contact www.watersafety.ie.
If you’re planning an activity in or on the water, remember:

• Swim at a lifeguarded waterway if possible.
• Swim within your depth, stay within your depth.
• Avoid entering the water in locks, marinas and harbours where hidden hazards may be present.
• Supervise Children: Never leave them unattended near water.
• Avoid Alcohol before swimming, operating watercraft or being near water, as it impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction time.
• Be aware that cold water temperatures can also cause cold water shock, increasing the risk of drowning.
• Pay attention to all water safety signs and warnings and carry a means of calling for help.
• Check tides and updated weather warnings.
• Always wear a correctly fitting serviced lifejacket or buoyancy aid when boating or participating in water sports.
• Let others know where you are going and when you expect to return.

Water Supply
While reservoirs, rivers and groundwater sources recovered earlier this year, that does not guarantee water security for all areas in the months ahead. Water supply continues to face challenges from rising demand and increasingly unpredictable weather patterns. Even where supplies are stable, a period of dry or warm weather can quickly place pressure on some areas. The public is reminded that every individual water-saving action counts, and using only what you need really helps to make a positive contribution that can benefit everyone and avoid water restrictions.
Customers can contact Uisce Éireann’s 24/7 helpdesk at 1800 278 278 or visit https://www.water.ie/
Fire Safety
The High Temperatures will likely bring an increase in outdoor activities, and the public is reminded that everybody has a part to play in protecting our unique rural landscapes, communities, habitats and forest resources from the threats posed by wildfire. If you are out and about enjoying our countryside and forests this summer, please help to reduce the risks of fire by keeping the following in mind:

• Do not light fires in or near woodland. Use only designated barbecue points where available. Thoroughly soak BBQ embers after use and make sure that they are extinguished completely.
• Do not block forest entrances or roads when parking – access may be required by the fire service or forestry personnel in the event of an emergency.
• If you see a fire, report it immediately to the emergency services – Dial 999 or 112.
• Report any illegal and suspicious activity to the Gardai. Note that the burning of growing vegetation on uncultivated land between 1 March and 31 August each year is prohibited by law.
• Do not approach fires or attempt to extinguish fires yourself. Wildfires can be extremely dangerous and can rapidly change direction and behaviour.

Further advice is available from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine at https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-agriculture-food-and-the-marine/publications/fire-management/