Think safety first before walking in the great outdoors
Following recent bad weather and heavy rainfall, Waterford City and County Council is advising those venturing outdoors to practise caution.
Johnny Brunnock, Trails Officer with Waterford City and County Council, “There is an abundance of fantastic coastal, mountain and woodland trails throughout the city and county.
“However, heavy and persistent rainfall have left the ground saturated, and this can create significant hazards for walkers. Heavy rain can cause the ground to become boggy and liable to subsidence and landslips. The risk of accidents is also increased as steep ground becomes slippery, and loose rock and mud can be difficult and dangerous to encounter.
“Woodland trails can often be hazardous after weather events with fallen trees and swollen rivers and streams.”
Mr. Brunnock advises that planning is crucial:
- Be particularly vigilant around coastal and upland cliffs, riverbanks, streams, woodlands (fallen trees), steep slopes etc.
- The ground is currently saturated and can be liable to subsidence and landslips.
- Heavy rain causes loose rocks, mud, and steep ground to become very slippery, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Always be prepared for your walk by planning ahead, know your route, let others know your planned route, have the required skills, be properly equipped and know the weather forecast – particularly any official weather warnings (Yellow/Orange/Red).
Mr. Brunnock added, “We would also reiterate the advice of the Irish Coast Guard to always ‘Stay Back, Stay High, Stay Dry’ from coastal areas during severe weather, storms or high tides as breaking waves and overtopping can be extremely dangerous.”
In case of emergency call 999 or 112 immediately.
-ends-
Image: Dunmore East Coastal Walk – Niamh McGuinness
