Wexford RNLI Volunteers Take to Croke Park Pitch to Deliver Vital Water Safety Message

Volunteers from Fethard, Kilmore Quay and Rosslare Harbour RNLI brought an important water safety message to one of the biggest stages in Irish sport this weekend, as they took part in a special activation at Croke Park.

The Wexford volunteers were among RNLI representatives from across the country who attended the stadium ahead of Saturday’s All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship semi-final between Cork and Galway, as part of the charity’s ongoing water safety partnership with the GAA.

Representing Wexford were Linda-Gene Byrne, RNLI Water Safety Lead, along with Fethard RNLI crew members Nadia and Natasha Blanchfield, Kilmore Quay RNLI crew members Declan and Brian Roche, and Rosslare Harbour RNLI volunteers Federica Fiorenza and Helena Leonard.

The partnership between the RNLI and the GAA aims to reduce the number of lives lost through drowning by bringing lifesaving water safety advice directly to communities across Ireland.

More than 80,000 supporters attending Saturday’s hurling semi-final and the earlier camogie quarter-final between Waterford and Kilkenny were reached through the event.

As part of the pitch activation, RNLI volunteers wearing their full kit crossed the pitch and paraded towards the Hogan Stand before a large RNLI flag was displayed ahead of the National Anthem.

The charity also used the occasion to launch a new Float to Live film, which was recorded in County Wicklow and will be rolled out in the coming weeks.

Earlier in the day, supporters arriving at Croke Park were greeted by an Atlantic 85 class lifeboat, while RNLI teams in the fan zone shared water safety advice and demonstrated lifesaving equipment, including how to use a throw bag.

Speaking after the event, Fethard RNLI volunteer and RNLI Water Safety Lead Linda-Gene Byrne said it was a privilege to represent the charity and Wexford at the national stadium.

She said the partnership with the GAA continues to highlight the shared values of both organisations, particularly volunteerism and the importance of community.

With the summer season now underway, the RNLI is reminding anyone who gets into difficulty in the water to remember its key Float to Live message.

The charity says people who find themselves in trouble should resist the instinct to panic or swim immediately and instead:

• Tilt your head back with your ears submerged.

• Relax and try to breathe normally.

• Move your hands and legs to help you stay afloat if needed.

• Once breathing is under control, call for help or swim to safety.

The RNLI says taking a moment to float can help someone regain control, recover their breathing and potentially save their life.