Warning of drowning risk over toys

■ Anyone visiting beaches, rivers and lakes is being urged to refrain from using inflatable toys on open water because of drowning risks. The Irish Coast Guard and Water Safety Ireland (WSI) is warning such devices are vulnerable to slight breezes and currents which can put a child in danger. Recent good weather has led to rescue call-outs when people have used inflatable toys.

Parents and guardians are also being reminded to make sure nobody goes to retrieve such a device from the water if it appears to be floating away. “Drownings typically occur when a person overestimates their ability and underestimates the risk,” WSI’s Roger Sweeney said.