With Met Eireann forecasting temperatures of up to 26 degrees for lovely Achill Island over the next few days, if you are thinking of going into the water, please ensure that you take suitable precautions before engaging in your activity.

If swimming, check that where you are going is safe and use beaches that have lifeguards (Keel will have lifeguards this weekend only).If boating or kayaking, please check the tides, winds and ensure that all your safety equipment is working (and that you have it with you!)

Achill Island Coastguard Unit were called out recently to rescue the occupants of a boat that ran aground in Dugort.We are very lucky to have fantastic rescue services locally, but accidents excepting, a bit of planning and forethought means that the valuable resource that they provide is used for real emergencies.

Don't forget your sunscreen when you go to the beach over the next few days (and hopefully the rest of the summer!)