More than five people drown in Ireland every fortnight.

That's according to Irish Water Safety.

It is appealing for people to take care while taking part in any activities near coasts or waterways over the Bank Holiday Weekend.

It's calling on anyone going out on the water to wear a lifejacket, to avoid alcohol and for swimmers to swim parallel and close to the shore.

Roger Sweeney, Deputy CEO of Irish Water Safety, is appealing to parents to make sure their children are safe.

Meanwhile, the Bank Holiday rush is expected to get underway today - with Dublin Airport expecting a busier weekend than the same time last year.

Dublin Airport Authority is asking passengers to check which terminal their flight is leaving from before going to the airport, to arrive at least 90 minutes before the flight and to be mindful of baggage regulations.

Almost 1 and a half thousand flights will arrive and depart over the long weekend - and
Spokesperson for the DAA, Siobhán Moore says it could mark the start of a busy summer. 

For the latest traffic and travel news this bank holiday weekend click here: