If you plan to go out on the water on any sort of vessel, we refer to that as being 'afloat'. When you do go on on the water, always remember to:
- keep in touch
- plan your trip carefully and never go out alone
- let someone ashore know where you are going and when you will be back
- carry a means of communication for raising the alarm should you get in to difficulty
Before leaving shore, you should:
- check the weather forecast - Met Eireann Marine Weather
- check the tides with the Marine Institute or the UK Hydrographic Office
- check times of sunrise/sunset - on timeanddate.com
- check the boat and equipment
- check you have enough fuel for your trip
- check lifejackets before use (and wear them on board) You can read more on lifejackets here.
- check for any sources of real time weather information e.g. real time MetOcean buoy observation
- inform shore contact of your intentions
- identify any landmarks or navigational aids that you can use
- confirm that you have means for calling for help. You can read more on how to call for help at sea here.
- confirm that the trip is within the capability of the boat and crew
If going to the coast, check the tides with the Marine Institute so you don’t get cut off. You should only swim at lifeguarded beaches or waterways. Always be aware of rip currents or moving water in rivers, and Never use inflatable water toys on open waters.
