The Irish Coast Guard, RNLI and Water Safety Ireland are coming together ahead of World Drowning Prevention Day this Saturday, 25 July, to remember those who have lost their lives in Irish waters and to urge the public to take extra care. July 2026 is shaping up to be one of the busiest months in years, with record levels of activity and a high number of callouts along the coast and on inland waterways.

The theme for World Drowning Prevention Day 2026 is 'Unite to turn the tide', calling on every part of society to work together to reduce drowning by 35% by 2035.

So far this year, 37 people have died in Irish waters, each loss bringing profound and long-lasting effects for families, friends and communities.

Recent warm weather has drawn many more people to beaches, rivers, lakes and the coastline, driving a sharp rise in demand for Coast Guard assistance and lifeguard interventions. To date in 2026, the Coast Guard has coordinated more than 1,700 incidents, resulting in 385 lives saved and over 1,600 people assisted.

In the second week of July alone, the Coast Guard coordinated 140 incidents—among the highest weekly totals on record—including 43 incidents on Sunday 12 July. Incidents in July 2026 to date are up 25% on the same period in 2025. As the organisations look back on an exceptionally busy summer, they are appealing to everyone planning time on or near the water to be prepared, understand the hazards and take simple steps so that everyone gets home safely.

If you are taking part in activities on or near the water, remember to:

- Check the weather forecast and tide times before you go.

- Stay alert to rising tides when walking the shoreline to avoid becoming stranded.

- Choose lifeguarded beaches where possible, always swim with others and stay within your depth.

- Watch out for rip currents, which can quickly sweep even strong swimmers away from shore.

- Remember that warm air does not mean safe water; cold water can trigger cold-water shock. Enter slowly to let your body adjust.

- Keep children under constant, uninterrupted supervision around water.

- Avoid alcohol before swimming, using watercraft or spending time near the water.

- Always wear a lifejacket or buoyancy aid for activities on the water.

- Heed water safety signs, flags and local warnings.

- Tell someone ashore about your plans and when you expect to return.

- Always carry a means of calling for help, such as a fully charged mobile phone or a marine VHF radio.

If you see someone in difficulty on the water or along the coast, or think they may be, use marine VHF radio Channel 16 or dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.