Public urged to take safety measures as temperatures set to rise to 30C
Soaring temperatures are set to continue this weekend, with the mercury to rise above 30C in places as the country swelters in the heat.Following on from a very hot Friday, Met Éireann forecasts temperatures to reach 30C on Saturday bringing with it a status yellow temperature warning.Although we may be more used to weather warnings for storms, a warning for high temperature brings with it water safety issues due to the increased use of lakes and beaches, and an increased risk of forest fires and heat stress, the forecaster said.The whole country is subject to the status yellow temperature warning from midday on Saturday until 6am on Sunday.As the public is told to take precautions during the period of hot, sunny weather, the Irish Cancer Society said on Friday that 70% of people say sunscreen is too expensive and a tenth say they don’t wear it because they cannot afford it.The charity called on local authorities across the country to allocate funding for free sunscreen dispensers, and make them available across parks, playgrounds, beaches, and local sunspots.It comes as Cork City Council is set to roll out dispensers in four locations from this Monday. It includes Marina Park, Fitzgerald’s Park, Clashduv Park, and Meelick.Irish Cancer Society cancer prevention manager Kevin O’Hagan said: “Nearly nine out of every 10 cases of skin cancer are caused by UV rays from the sun or sunbeds.“Sun safety is vital and that means protecting your skin, wherever you are, home or abroad. With most Irish people having fair skin, this will burn much quicker at soaring temperatures, and this greatly increases the risk of skin cancer.“That’s why in our 2026 pre-budget submission, we’re calling for city and county councils, especially those in coastal areas that are known sun destinations, to provide free sunscreen dispensers. We want to commend Cork City Council on taking this step forward and call on other local authorities to follow suit.” Water safety Meanwhile, the RNLI has asked those planning a trip to the coast or inland waterways to make sure they keep themselves and their families safe.They have urged people to visit a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags, to check the weather forecast and tide times, and to read local hazard signage to understand local risks.The public has been urged to keep a close eye on family, both on the beach and in the water, and to make sure people do not swim alone.Linda-Gene Byrne, RNLI water safety lead, said: "We are expecting people to head to the coast during the hot weather, it is a great way to have fun, relax and cool off in high temperatures."Choosing a lifeguarded beach will mean our lifeguards can ensure you enjoy a safe visit. Please head to a lifeguarded beach, swim between flags."If you find yourself in trouble, 'Float to Live'. Knowing this technique and encouraging your family to practice it, could save your life."Whether you get into difficulty in the water at the coast or on any of our inland waters, 'Float to Live': tilt your head back, with your ears submerged. Relax and try to breathe normally."Move your hands and legs to help you stay afloat if you need to. It's fine if your legs sink — we all float differently. By doing this, you give yourself the chance to rest and recover your breathing."Once you've regained control of your breathing, you can call for help or swim to safety."Water Safety Ireland urged anyone visiting the beach to enter the water slowly.It said: "Whether you're swimming, surfing, or paddleboarding, make safety your top priority."
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