The RNLI and the Irish Coast Guard are asking swimmers to take care this Easter Bank Holiday

Saturday, 3 April 2021 16:47

Rescue teams have warned of an increase in the number of requests for help in recent weeks

A sunny forecast is likely to encourage people onto the beaches, but rescue teams have warned of an increase in the number of requests for help in recent weeks.

Most calls have involved walkers cut off by the tide, and people getting into difficulty while open water swimming.

Head of Operations, Gerard O'Flynn, says if you do see someone in trouble, don't hesitate to call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.

"The weather is unseasonably good at the moment and is quite bright, I know the forecast isn't great for the latter part of the bank holiday weekend. but sea temperatures will be pretty low. So people who are not swimming all year around - it's not a suitable time to be getting in and going for anything other than a quick dip. And even if you do go in for quick dip, make sure that you're visible, and make sure that there's somebody monitoring your activity for ashore"