World Drowning Prevention Day is today……. Friday July 25^th .

The Athlone greenway bridge lights will be turning blue tonight to recognise world drowning prevention day.

Some Drowning Facts:

• Water Safety Ireland has recently highlighted a concerning increase in drownings among individuals under the age of 18.
• Specifically, there has been a rise to an average of 7 drownings per year for this age group in 2023 and 2024, compared to 5 per year between 2018 and 2022. This represents a 40% increase in drownings for this age group. 

Water Safety: Young Persons

This year's theme from the World Health Organization is to share stories that can save lives. Please see the following Water Safety Ireland video about water safety and young persons:

https://youtu.be/GzxCkl4ShHA?si=sqN11u_3dGhU7QZ8

Your Water Safety:

You, your family, or friends may be out enjoying the outdoors in the beautiful Lake County or at other water locations across the country over the coming weeks. That is great…….but think about your safety when in/around the water. If you see somebody in trouble on the water or along the coast, or think they are in trouble, use Marine VHF channel 16 or Dial 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.

Content Last Updated/Reviewed: 25/07/2025