A number of agencies are jointly calling on people to continue to exercise care this Bank Holiday weekend.
The Road Safety Authority and Garda August Bank Holiday road safety campaign, which begins, continues until Wednesday.
Motorists are being warned there will be increased checkpoints and an extended enforcement period, targeting speeding, drink and drug driving and the use of mobile phones while driving.
Motorists are being warned that means an extended enforcement period across the weekend – targeting speeding, drink and drug driving, and the use of mobile phones.
Meanwhile the Irish Coast Guard, RNLI and Water Safety Ireland are appealing for people to take care when they are on or near the water. The public are encouraged to ‘Always Think Water Safety’ by planning and preparing before venturing on or near the water.
Anyone wishing to enjoy the water this bank holiday is urged to check the weather forecast, including tides, and ensure that they have the right equipment for the activity they are to undertake.
Kevin Whitney, Operations Manager with the Irish Coast Guard said there has been an increase in the number of incidents this summer involving paddle boarders, persons becoming stranded due to incoming tides, recreational boater groundings and several diving incidents.
“Remember to have the right equipment for the activity you are about to undertake such as a correctly fitting Personal Flotation Device (PFD), and to let someone ashore know where you are going and when you will return, and most importantly, to have a means to call for help such as a marine VHF Radio, fully charged mobile phone, or Personal Locator Beacon.
“If participating in any diving activities, then it is highly recommended that you file a float plan with someone ashore or the Coast Guard so that emergency services are aware of your location and can assist if need be.”
In an emergency you can call 999 / 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.
Meanwhile, the HSE in the West and North West is encouraging the public to know what healthcare options are available should you or family need them.
If you urgently need to see a GP outside their clinic hours, you can contact your local GP out-of-hours service.
Additional practice staff will be working over the long weekend to deal with an expected increase in demand.
Tony Canavan, Regional Executive Officer HSE West and North West said a higher number of people attend emergency departments over bank holidays.
He reminded people that emergency departments are for life-threatening emergencies.
“Patients who attend for routine and non-urgent treatment may be waiting a long time to be seen and there are other services available to you which may be more appropriate.
“Injury Units, GP Out of Hours services and pharmacies all can provide expert advice and treatment over the long weekend.
“Please stay safe on the roads if you are travelling and look after your mental health in addition to your physical health.”