Many popular and common activities take place on / around water throughout the year. However, there are associated risks so it is important to know the do’s and don’ts around water. Helpful advice should always be considered and easy to follow precautions can be taken prior to getting into water. Likewise, there are actions one can take should they find themselves in trouble or difficult situations.
Water Safety Classes
Want to try Water Safety Classes and progress toward your Lifeguarding Qualifications? All programmes lead to Irish Water Safety Certification
Courses commencing at Laois Leisure Portlaoise (formerly Portlaoise Leisure Centre) as follows:
How can I book a place?
To book your place please complete and return the relevant registration form listed below and email to sports@laoiscoco.ie
Am I eligible to participate?
To participate in the Water Safety Classes you must be able to swim 25 metres (1 length)
Schools programme
Laois County Council in association with Water Safety Ireland, support and deliver the Primary Aquatic Water Safety Programme (PAWS) in county Laois primary schools. This is rolled out annually. The aim of the programme is very simple:
Every Child a Swimmer – Every Swimmer a Lifesaver!
The PAWS syllabus forms a component part of the Physical Education strand of the official Department of Education primary school curriculum. As a further support to this programme Irish Water Safety will deploy a development officer to promote and support the nationwide rollout of this programme.
The PAWS programme will work as follows:
Phase 1: Aquatic Organizer In-service Training, a 3 hour training course to upskill participating schools
Schools wishing to participate in PAWS programme will need to have a trained a trained Aquatic Organizer on staff to deliver key aspects of the programmes.
We strongly recommend that a minimum of two/three staff from your school attend as it is important to ensure continuity should staff be unavailable for various reasons.
Phase 2: Training for swim teachers to deliver programme in the swimming pools.
Phase 3: Laois PAWS commenced Autumn 2015. At the end of every six/eight week cycle of swimming lessons participants will be examined to determine their level of competence.
Land PAWS is a programme where Laois Water Safety representatives visit school and deliver a programme to children in relation to safety in, on & around water on the land i.e. Farms, Home, Waterways and Pools.
Related Links
- Water Safety Courses
- Become a Lifeguard
- Water Safety Education
- Water Safety Advice
- Missing Ringbuoys & Lifebuoys Reporting Form
Further information
For further information, please email sports@laoiscoco.ie or call us on 057 866 4058.