Busy lifeguard season

It was a busy season for Cork lifeguards with 21 rescues, 23 lost children reunited with their families and 940 first aid incidents.

A total of 39 full-time beach lifeguards raised their red and yellow flags during the first weekend in June and lowered them for the final time on 12 September across 12 of Cork county’s beaches.

18,218 pieces of beach and water safety advice were provided too.

Mayor of the County of Cork Cllr Gillian Coughlan highlighted how important the beach lifeguard service is every year but particularly so this year.

She said: “Our beautiful beaches were very much in demand this summer with many people holidaying at home.

“I would like to thank all beachgoers who were very respectful to each other and to our lifeguard teams. The weather may have been mixed but our beaches were always a great place to experience the outdoors.”

Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Tim Lucey also praised the lifeguards for their hard work this summer adding that the figures for 2021 are a testament to the excellent work carried out by the lifeguard service. The council’s beach lifeguards work hand in hand with other emergency services such as the Coast Guard, RNLI, An Garda Siochana, National Ambulance Service, Fire Service and Medico Cork.

Cork County Council continues to encourage members of the public to stay safe if they are visiting the coast this autumn and winter. The advice is to take a method of communication with you, tell someone where you are going and what time you are expected back. If you see someone in difficulty in or near the water, dial 112 or 999 and ask for the Coast Guard.