Water Safety Ireland is urging the public to remain cautious around water ahead of the Bank Holiday weekend - as the long weekend brings an increased risk of drowning.
Members of the public need to stay alert around water and adhere to social distancing, travel, and other public health guidelines.
More people are expected to visit coastal and inland waterways over the Bank Holiday, areas where the potential for accidents are even greater.
Cooler more changeable conditions will increase the risks for novice open water swimmers who should keep the duration of their dip to a minimum.
People are also advised that they should wear a wetsuit and swim within their depth.
Anglers are advised to always wear a lifejacket when on or near water and ensure that it is fitted correctly.
They should also carry a mobile phone in a waterproof bag.
Water Safety Ireland issued a further note of caution about swimming in cold water.
Survival time after accidental immersion is much reduced in cooler water, it said, as it drains body heat much faster than cold air.
People who are not used to cold water swimming should wear a wetsuit.
Cold shock caused by water can cause a loss of breathing control, possible dizziness and panic, all of which can increase the risk of sudden drowning even if the water is calm and the person in difficulty is a strong swimmer.
Furthermore, if a person survives this but is then unable to get out of the water, progressive body cooling could lead to hypothermia and muscle cooling, which makes swimming more difficult.
Children cool faster than adults because they are smaller and have less fat, the water safety agency said.
If someone falls into cold water, the body advises: "Avoid swimming, stay calm and relax. Float or tread water and if possible, get as much of your body out of the water because you will always cool faster in water than in air.
"Wearing a lifejacket with a crotch strap will enable you to lessen heat escape by keeping your legs together and elbows by your side."
Parents should watch children closely around water, and alcohol should be avoided before or during any activity on the water, it added.
You can read more here, or in an emergency call 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.
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