The October bank holiday weekend holds hidden dangers for people who partake in water-based activities, according to the Irish Water Safety Association.
Mr Roger Sweeney, the association's spokesman, has called on fishing and shooting enthusiasts to be particularly vigilant at this time of year because of the possibility of rising water levels, faster currents and flooding.
"People don't think about the possibility of drowning at this time of year. Not as much attention is paid to water safety in terms of wearing life-jackets. Then you have the whole alcohol issue; it is as dangerous to pilot a boat drunk as it is to drink and drive."
Mr Sweeney said parents should be aware of recent legislation on jet-skis and fast power craft which made wearing life-jackets mandatory for children on vessels under the age of 16.
Wearing life-jackets was more widespread, but Mr Sweeney said it was still a problem among a sizeable proportion of the population. People who fished and went shooting were particularly reluctant to wear them.
"Not enough people are wearing them. It is a simple precaution which could save lives. The general public are also encouraged to check the weather forecast for the area and to check the condition of their craft this weekend."
The association is running resuscitation and life-saving programmes. People interested in learning life-saving skills should contact the association at 1890- 420 202 or access www.is.i.e
Fifty-two people drowned in Ireland last year, a reduction of nine on 1999.