National Water Safety Awareness Week: May 19th – 25th, 2025
78 drownings last year prompts call for caution near water
A third of summer drownings happen in June
Water Safety Ireland has issued a call for caution near water, as figures released for 2024 show that 78 people drowned nationwide, 56 male and 22 female. The call during National Water Safety Awareness Week (May 19-25), appeals for people to enjoy the water but respect the risk.
“78 people drowned in 2024, the same as in 2023 which is thankfully lower than the ten-year average of 112 but still a tragic unnecessary loss of life,” commented the Chair of Water Safety Ireland, Clare McGrath.
“Ireland is currently enjoying warmer weather, however our waterways are still quite cold,” added McGrath, “Please don’t underestimate the risk of cold water or overestimate your ability to swim in cooler open waters that have hidden currents. Swim in areas that are traditionally known to be safe, stay within your depth and supervise children closely.”
The tragic loss of three people under 18 over the last two weekends comes as figures show that thirteen people aged under 18 drowned in Ireland in 2023 (9) and 2024 (4) combined.
“A quarter of all summer drownings happen in June so now is the time during National Water Safety Awareness Week to learn how to enjoy the water and respect the risk.”, said McGrath. “With a little preparation and awareness, everyone can enjoy the water more confidently and safely. This is not about restriction—it’s about empowerment. By taking simple steps, people can make water activities safer and more enjoyable for all. I encourage everyone to visit our webpage www.watersafety.ie/awarenessweek.”
A total of 1,124 people drowned in Ireland in the last ten years, a period when 1,515 died on roads. Drowning accounted for 43% of this combined total of 2,639 road and water deaths.
Top Ten Water Safety Tips for Summer:
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- Show children Water Safety Ireland’s summer online class – these 7 minutes could save a life:
- Lifeguards begin patrols in June. Find them at https://watersafety.ie/lifeguards/.
- Swim within your depth, stay within your depth – and ensure your family does the same.
- Supervise Children: Never leave children unattended near water.
- Wear Lifejackets: Use lifejackets when boating or participating in water sports.
- Avoid Alcohol: Do not swim or operate watercraft under the influence of alcohol.
- Know the Water: Ask locally about water conditions and check weather forecast.
- Swim with a Friend: Always have a companion.
- Follow Safety Signs: Pay attention to and obey all water safety signs and warnings.
- Don’t Overestimate Your Ability: Only swim in areas that are known to be safe and where you feel comfortable and within your ability.
Free Resources for a Safer Summer
To help the public stay safe around water this summer, Water Safety Ireland has launched a dedicated Campaign Hub at www.watersafety.ie/awarenessweek offering a range of practical resources for all water users—including educators, parents, employers, and activity enthusiasts—designed to promote safer behaviour in, on, and near water.
Let’s Start the Conversation.
National Water Safety Awareness Week is a chance to have life-saving conversations, pause before taking risks, and encourage each other to be prepared. Whether you’re casting a line, catching a wave, or strolling along a canal, remember: Enjoy the Water. Respect the Risk.
Celebrating 80 Years of Lifesaving Impact
2025 also marks a major milestone: 80 years of Water Safety Ireland working to reduce drownings through education, advocacy, and community engagement. Since 1945, the organisation has worked tirelessly to promote a culture of safety and respect around water nationwide.
Data shows that 43% of all accidental drownings occur between June & August, with July and August being the most dangerous months—each recording 54 drownings between 2018 and 2022
In addition, males accounted for 69% of all drownings in this 5-year period, with individuals in their 40s, 50s, and 60s identified as the most at-risk age groups.
Notably, 67% of all accidental drownings followed land-based activities—such as walking, hiking, foraging, fishing from the shoreline, cycling, or driving—underscoring how quickly everyday situations can turn hazardous near water.
28.5% of 151 accidental drownings that took place in the summer during the five years 2018-2022 occurred in June (35.75% in each of July and August). Further data here: https://watersafety.ie/statistics/
*Figures for 2023 and 2024 are provisional.
National Water Safety Awareness Week: May 19th – 25th, 2025 - For more articles like this click HERE
