Lifeguard Rescue Statistics

Our Local Authorities employ Irish Water Safety assessed llifeguards during the bathing season at popular bathing sites nationwide. The table below gives a clear picture of the effectiveness and value they contribute to saving lives each year and we commend them for this work in drowning prevention.

“Although there were 147 drownings in Ireland during 2012, this figure could have been much higher were it not for the preventive actions effected by Irish Water Safety assessed Lifeguards who rescued 398 persons from drowning, administered first aid to 2,809 people and reunited 319 lost children with their guardians. Their positive effect on drowning prevention is further reflected in the 53,274 instances in which they issued advice to members of the public and a further 12,953 lifeguard actions that anticipated and thus prevented an accident occurring.” Breda Collins, Chairman, Irish Water Safety.