Most People Who Drown in Ireland Never Intended to Enter the Water, Warns Water Safety Ireland
- Pat Nolan
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Wednesday 20 May 2026
As Ireland approaches the summer season, Water Safety Ireland is urging the public to take greater care around waterways after new figures revealed a stark reality: most people who drown accidentally in Ireland never intended to enter the water.
Launching National Water Safety Awareness Week, which runs from 18–24 May, the organisation highlighted that 65% of accidental drownings were linked to land-based activities such as coastal walking, angling, cycling near canals, or simply spending time close to water — not swimming.
The awareness campaign aims to encourage families, communities, and outdoor enthusiasts to plan ahead and recognise the hidden dangers that rivers, canals, lakes, and coastlines can present, even during routine activities.
Awareness Beyond Swimming
Speaking at the launch of the nationwide awareness programme, Jerry Buttimer, Minister of State at the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, stressed that water safety applies to everyone, not just swimmers or water sports participants.
“Water safety is not just about swimming or water sports,” he said. “It is relevant to everyday activities such as coastal walks, cycling beside canals, angling, or visiting parks and beaches with family.”
He added that as summer approaches, now is the ideal time for families and communities to have important conversations about staying safe near water.
“Greater awareness and simple precautions can save lives,” he said.
Land-Based Activities Linked to Majority of Drownings
According to Water Safety Ireland, there were 363 accidental drownings in Ireland between 2019 and 2023. Of these, 236 were linked to land-based activities near water.
Chairperson Clare McGrath said the findings highlight the importance of understanding the often-overlooked risks posed by waterways.
“These tragedies often happen suddenly and unexpectedly, but many could be prevented through greater awareness and simple planning,” she said.
She warned against underestimating the dangers associated with rivers, canals, lakes, and coastlines, even for those who do not intend to enter the water.
“Whether you are walking the dog along a riverbank, cycling beside a canal or enjoying time at the coast with family, always stay alert to your surroundings and always supervise children,” she added.
Education Key to Prevention
Chief Executive of Water Safety Ireland, Joanne Walsh, said education remains one of the strongest tools in preventing drowning incidents.
“By understanding the everyday hazards that exist around water, people can better recognise risks and take action before accidents happen,” she said.
This year’s campaign message, “Awareness is a Lifesaver,” encourages the public to think ahead and recognise how quickly situations near water can change.
Drowning Figures Highlight Serious Concern
The organisation also revealed that 1,124 people drowned in Ireland between 2014 and 2023. During the same period, 1,515 people died on Irish roads.
Combined, road and water fatalities totalled 2,639 deaths, with drowning accounting for 43% of the overall figure — underlining the significant public safety challenge posed by water-related incidents.
Water Safety Advice for Summer
Water Safety Ireland is encouraging the public to follow several key safety measures this summer:
Take a training course before participating in water-based activities.
Swim within your depth and stay within your abilities.
Always supervise children near water.
Wear a lifejacket when boating or engaging in water sports.
Avoid alcohol before swimming, operating watercraft, or spending time near water.
Check weather forecasts and ask locally about water conditions.
Pay attention to water safety signs and warnings.
The organisation has also launched a dedicated awareness campaign hub featuring safety resources for parents, educators, employers, and water users.
Further information, resources, and drowning statistics are available from Water Safety Ireland and Safety Zone Ireland.
