Public Safety Warning Issued

Uisce Éireann is urging the public to stay out of the Tibbotstown Reservoir in Cloneen, Carrigtwohill, Co. Cork, warning that swimming, diving, or jumping into the reservoir is extremely dangerous and strictly prohibited. 

During the recent period of warm weather, a number of incidents have been observed, involving individuals climbing onto the dam structure and valve tower and jumping into deep water. This behaviour poses a serious and immediate risk to life. 

Strictly Prohibited Activities

• Entering the water (swimming or wading)
• Diving or jumping from any structure
• Climbing fences or accessing restricted areas

Stay Safe – Stay Out of the Water

Uisce Éireann is asking parents and guardians to remind young people of the dangers and to respect all safety signage and barriers in place at all reservoir sites.

Important Reminder
Reservoirs are not recreational areas. They are industrial and operational water infrastructure sites with serious, often hidden hazards and constantly changing conditions.

Key Dangers

• Hidden Infrastructure Beneath the Surface: Submerged plant, valves, pipework, and operational infrastructure that are not visible from the surface and can cause serious injury or death on impact.
• Strong and Unpredictable Currents: Draw-off points and outlet structures can create powerful underwater currents capable of pulling swimmers below the surface, pinning them against structures, or preventing resurfacing.
• Deep Water: Water depths exceed 12 metres in places, and sudden immersion can lead to cold shock, panic, and disorientation, significantly increasing the risk of drowning.
• Dense Aquatic Vegetation: Heavy weed growth near the dam wall can entangle swimmers, with the potential to trap swimmers below the surface.
• Severe Risk from Fall from Height: Jumping from the dam crest or valve tower roof involves significant height and carries a high risk of serious injury including spinal damage and, impact trauma.

Restricted Operational Area
The dam and valve tower are critical infrastructure. Climbing or accessing these areas is dangerous and unauthorised, posing a risk to both personal safety and the water supply system.