Safety on the Blueway
Navigate the Risks, Enjoy the Route
Our Blueways are beautiful — and they’re wild. Conditions on and near the water can change fast, and all water-based activities carry real risk. For that reason, Blueways Ireland strongly recommends experiencing the network through a qualified, experienced activity provider who will guide you on safety and preparedness. If you’re planning an independent trip, follow the advice on this page as your starting point.
Blueways Safety Principles
Engage the Experts
Blueways Ireland recommends participation through appropriately-qualified and experienced activity providers who will advise on your safety and help prepare you for your trip using these five “Stay” safety principles:
Float to Live
Would you know what to do if you were struggling in the water?
The Float to Live technique could save your life – follow these steps to stay safe in the water.
- Tilt your head back while keeping your ears submerged.
- Relax, breathe normally and move your hands and legs to help you stay afloat.
- Don’t worry if your legs sink as we all float differently.
- Once you’re feeling composed, call for help or swim to safety.
Float to Live is part of a public campaign created by Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI).
Blueways Ireland also recommends RNLI water safety resources.
Supervise children and young people
Always actively supervise children and young people near water.
Drowning can happen in moments and often without a sound.
Alcohol and the water
– save it for later
Alcohol can seriously impair your judgement, reactions and ability to swim. It is a significant contributing factor to water-related incidents, and even water-related deaths. If you are going to drink, save it for after you have finished your activity on or near the water. RNLI has a helpful “Know the Risk” guide to alcohol and water safety.
Activity-specific guidance
Whether you are walking or cycling near water or taking part in water-based activities, each new adventure comes with its own risks. To help you stay safe, RNLI has simple, activity-specific safety tips. Before you head out, take a moment to check their guidance for your activity so you can manage the risks.
Leave No Trace
Take Only Memories, Leave Only Ripples
Protecting the special places that make Blueways unique is a shared responsibility. By following Leave No Trace principles, you can help preserve waterways, wildlife, landscapes and local communities for future generations to enjoy.
Whether you’re walking, cycling or paddling, simple eco-friendly actions such as taking your litter home, staying on designated trails and launch points, respecting wildlife, cleaning equipment between waterways and being considerate of other users can make a lasting difference.
Leave No Trace is about enjoying the outdoors responsibly – taking only memories, leaving only ripples, and helping to ensure that Ireland’s Blueways remain healthy, beautiful and welcoming for everyone.