By Kim O'Leary
The ESB are appealing to members of the public in Co Kildare to be aware of the dangers and consequences of swimming in reservoirs during the current spell of hot weather today as the bank holiday weekend continues into its final day.
Uneven ground, deep waters, changing water levels and fast flowing waters make the water storage facilities a risky place for swimmers to go as people seek ways to cool down during the warm weather.
According to statistics from Irish Water Safety, 62% of drownings in Ireland occur inland.
The water safety organisation has advised people to bathe in traditionally safe bathing areas. They have also warned of the dangers of swimming for extended periods – as the water temperatures are still cold around this time of year.
ESB reservoirs across the country include facilities at Poulaphoca and Golden Falls in Wicklow, Leixlip Reservoir Lake in Kildare, Inniscarra and Carrigadrohid in Cork, the Ardnacrusha headrace and tailrace canal in Co Clare and Assaroe and Lough NaCung in Co Donegal.
For more information and advice visit http://www.iws.ie/
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