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Dunmore East RNLI respond to report of a windsurfer in difficulty at Dollar Bay
Dunmore East RNLI respond to report of a windsurfer in difficulty at Dollar Bay
Tuesday 11 April 2023
At 3:42pm on Monday 10 April, Dunmore East RNLI were tasked to a report of a windsurfer in difficulty near Dollar Bay.
The volunteer crew launched the Shannon Class all-weather lifeboat, William & Agnes Wray, and carried out an extensive search of the area. Nothing was found during the search.
Dunmore East RNLI would like to express our gratitude to the vigilant member of the public who made the initial report. Their prompt action exemplifies the importance of alerting authorities when witnessing an emergency situation. If you see someone in trouble or find yourself in danger, please call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard.
To ensure safety while enjoying our beautiful coastline, we urge everyone to follow these essential guidelines:
1. Check weather and tide conditions before heading out.
2. Carry a reliable means of communication, such as a phone or VHF radio, to raise the alarm if necessary.
3. Inform someone about your plans, including your destination and estimated time of return.
4. Wear an appropriate Personal Flotation Device while on the water.
5. Be mindful of incoming tides to avoid getting stranded.
Photo Credit:
RNLI/Dunmore East
Lough Derg RNLI launched to a boat adrift & to assist a kayaker in difficulty
Lough Derg RNLI launched to a boat adrift & to assist a kayaker in difficulty
Monday 10 April 2023
In two back-to-back callouts, Lough Derg RNLI launched to search for a possible missing person and to assist a kayaker in difficulty in the water.
At 10.28am on Monday morning 10 April, Valentia Coast Guard requested Lough Derg RNLI to launch following a report from a resident on Illaunmore that a speedboat was at an unsafe location north of the island and appeared not to have anyone on board. Valentia Coast Guard requested the lifeboat to check the vessel and determine whether anyone was in need of assistance.
At 10.39am Lough Derg RNLI lifeboat Jean Spier launched with helm Eleanor Hooker, Doireann Kennedy, Chris Parker and Richard Nolan on board. Winds were west-southwest, F3, gusting F6 with frequent heavy rain showers. Visibility was good.
At 10.55am the RNLI lifeboat crew could see the casualty vessel at the location reported north of Illaunmore. They navigated the lifeboat through safe water to the casualty vessel, which was close to shore. An RNLI crew member waded in to the vessel and found it to be at anchor astern, with a line from it’s bow to a tree on the shore. As the vessel had been made secure, the RNLI volunteer checked through the cabin windows and was satisfied there was no one on board. The lifeboat reported their findings to Valentia Coast Guard, who then stood down the lifeboat .
The lifeboat departed the scene at 10.59am and was back at station at 11.12am. The lifeboat was washed down and refuelled at 11.20am.
At 11.45am Valentia Coast Guard requested Lough Derg RNLI lifeboat to assist a kayaker reported to be in difficulty in the water in Dromineer Bay, close to St. David’s.
At 11.54am Lough Derg RNLI lifeboat Jean Spier launched with helm Eleanor Hooker, Doireann Kennedy and Chris Parker on board. Winds were westerly, F3 gusting F6 with frequent heavy squalls, visibility was good.
En route, two kayakers informed the RNLI crew that they were a party of four and that their companion was in the water to the right of St. David’s. A third kayaker paddling to safety, pointed towards the location of the kayaker in the water. The RNLI volunteers quickly located the person whose profile was low in the water.
At 11.56am the lifeboat was alongside the casualty who had managed to get up on and lie lengthways on their upturned kayak. The casualty was taken onto the lifeboat along with the kayak and paddle. The casualty was feeling cold but was not exhibiting signs of hypothermia. Whilst taking the casualty to safety, the lifeboat met the other three kayakers rowing a sheltered route in the lee of Goose Island. The lifeboat remained with them until they reached safe harbour.
Once delivered safely back on land, the RNLI volunteers advised all four kayakers to change immediately into dry clothing and to have a warm drink.
At 12 midday the lifeboat returned to station and at 12.35am was washed down and refuelled.
Aoife Kennedy, Deputy Launching Authority at Lough Derg RNLI said the earlier callout was a ‘false alarm but with good intent’. She thanked the public for their vigilance. Ms Kennedy advises all lake users to ‘check the weather before going afloat and to remember that the water is still cold at this time of year so do dress appropriately for your activity’.
Photo Credit:
RNLI/Eleanor Hooker
Saturday 8 April 2023
Easter prompts water safety appeal from Coast Guard, RNLI, Water Safety Ireland
Easter prompts water safety appeal from Coast Guard, RNLI, Water Safety Ireland
This Easter bank holiday weekend, the Coast Guard, RNLI and Water Safety Ireland have issued a joint water safety appeal asking people to take some basic precautions to stay safe when they visit the coast or participate in water activities, coastal or inland.
With the evenings getting brighter and the weather improving, more people are expected to get out on the water and knowing some simple water safety advice could help prevent an accident or tragedy. There will also be spring tides this weekend, which means higher than normal water levels at full tide. This can increase the risk of getting cut off by tide, so people are asked to be mindful before planning a trip.
The three organisations are issuing some important safety advice to people who will be engaging in a range of water-based activities:
If heading out on the water or visiting the coast:
- Always check the weather and tides
- Carry a reliable means of raising the alarm (i.e., phone or VHF radio)
- Tell someone where you are going and what time you will be back
- Wear a suitable Personal Flotation Device on the water
- Watch out for incoming tides to avoid getting cut off
If you are swimming:
- Water temperatures are still cold at this time of the year, consider wearing a wetsuit to stay warm
- Acclimatise slowly
- Wear a bright swimming cap and consider a tow float to increase your visibility
- Never swim alone and always ensure that your activity is being monitored by a colleague
If you are kayaking, canoeing or paddle boarding:
- Always have a means for calling for help and make sure you can access it when you are out on the water
- Tell someone where you are going and what time you expect to return
- Wear a lifejacket or buoyancy aid
- Always check the weather forecast and sea conditions before you set off.
- Paddle in a group where possible. If you're exploring somewhere new, seek knowledge from experienced practitioners in the area.
Irish Coast Guard Operations Manager Micheál O’Toole said: ‘Many people will take the opportunity of the Easter long weekend to visit the coast and take part in coastal or water-based activity. Having some basic water safety knowledge in advance could make an enormous difference and even save a life. People need to be mindful that the water is very cold at this time of year, and it is easy to be caught out by tides. Never ever swim alone and if you are using a boat or kayak, let someone know you are out and when expected back. Please ensure that if an emergency arises and you need assistance, that you are capable of contacting the Coast Guard with a marine VHF radio, Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) or EPIRB. Never rely on a mobile phone alone.’
Lisa Hollingum, RNLI Water Safety Delivery Support added: ‘By taking a few simple steps, everyone can reduce the risk of an accident in or near the water. If you fall in unexpectedly, remember to ‘Float to Live’ – lie on your back and spread your arms and legs, gently moving them to keep afloat. Keep floating until you feel your breath coming back before calling for help or swimming ashore if nearby.’
Water Safety Ireland’s Deputy CEO Roger Sweeney said: ‘School children are particularly at risk on Easter holiday family trips to waterways nationwide. They are naturally curious about water and require close, uninterrupted adult supervision. Have a water safety conversation with the children in your care. Teach them the advice available at www.teachpaws.ie and be summer ready at www.gov.ie/summerready.’
Dunmore East RNLI
Photo Credit:
RNLI/Nigel Millard
Friday 7 April 2023
Courtown RNLI rescues dog after it becomes stuck on rocks at Ardamine Church
Courtown RNLI rescues dog after it becomes stuck on rocks at Ardamine Church
On Thursday afternoon (6 April), Courtown RNLI has rescued a dog after it got separated from its owner and got stuck on rocks below Ardamine Church.
The volunteer crew were requested by the Irish Coast Guard to launch their inshore lifeboat at approximately 2pm and launched shortly after at 2.10pm with helm Robbie Ireton and crew members Peter Browne and Amy Dowdall onboard. They arrived on scene at 2.14pm and observed that Courtown Coast Guard’s shore unit were on scene but couldn’t reach the dog due to the steep rocky terrain.
The conditions were favourable at the time with partial cloud and a slight wind.
Having assessed the situation, a decision was made for crew members Peter and Amy to swim ashore and climb up on the rocks and work together to fasten a harness around the large dog. Due to its size and the slippiness of the rocks, this proved challenging and the crew had to work to carry the dog carefully from rock to rock, until they managed to hand it safely over to the Coast Guard, who then reunited the dog with its relieved owner.
The lifeboat then returned to the station where there was plenty of shore crew to assist with washing the boat and leaving it ready for the next call out.
Speaking following the call out, Jim Murphy, Courtown RNLI Deputy Launching Authority said: ‘This was the first call out of the year and we were delighted to assist in reuniting the dog safe and well with its owner.
We would encourage pet owners to keep their animal on a lead when close to cliff edges, and slippery surfaces. If your pet does go into the water or gets stuck on rocks, don’t attempt a rescue yourself, they will probably get out themselves. If you are worried and need help, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.’
Photo Credit:
RNLI/Courtown
Thursday 6 April 2023
RNLI lifeguards set to return to Causeway Coast for Easter weekend
RNLI lifeguards set to return to Causeway Coast for Easter weekend
Lifeguards from the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) return to beaches this week, as the charity, Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council and National Trust prepare and get ready for another busy season.
From this Good Friday (7 April) through to Sunday 16 April, lifeguards will be providing a patrol from 11am to 7pm on Benone Strand, Portrush West Strand, Portrush East Strand, Whiterocks and Ballycastle and from 10am to 6pm on Portstewart Strand.
Last summer RNLI lifeguards in Northern Ireland saved 13 lives, aided over 450 people and responded to over 300 incidents as over 650,000* people visit a RNLI lifeguarded beach in Northern Ireland in 2022.
The RNLI works in partnership with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, the National Trust, and Newry, Mourne and Down District Council each year to set up and roll out a lifeguard service at their request. Setting up a lifeguard service each season for the Council involves several different elements including recruiting and training lifeguards and organising the logistics to deliver equipment and in some cases lifeguard units to each beach.
Before a lifeguard sets foot on a beach, they take part in months of training. From a rigorous fitness test to learning vital casualty care skills, it takes a lot of hard work, dedication and commitment in order to save lives at the beach.
As well as rescuing those in trouble in the water, RNLI lifeguards have to deal with multiple lost children, minor first aids including cuts and stings, major first aids including fractures and critical illnesses and provide safety advice to beach goers to ensure they enjoyed their day at the beach as safely as possible.
Michael Thompson, RNLI Regional Lifeguard Lead said: ‘RNLI lifeguards are at the forefront of the charity’s lifesaving work, as they keep beach visitors safe across the Causeway Coast and in Co Down. Last year’s figures show the importance of our lifeguards and what they do for the public, we are expecting coastal areas to be just as busy in the summer season ahead.
‘The RNLI has been working closely with the Councils, the National Trust and local communities to ensure the beaches and lifeguard units are ready and equipped, and that lifeguard training has been performed seamlessly.
‘Pre-season preparations have gone well, and our lifeguards are looking forward to getting back on the beaches and doing what they do best; offering preventative safety advice to visitors and rescuing those in difficulty in the water or on the beach itself.
‘However, it is important to remember that our lifeguards can’t be everywhere. Our lifeguards will be supported by the charity’s 24/7 lifeboat service and water safety work, but we urge anyone visiting the coast to take responsibility for themselves and their family this summer.’
Both Causeway Coast and Glens and Newry, Mourne and Down District Councils and the National Trust invest each year in keeping their beach visitors safe by contributing to RNLI costs, which helps to meet lifeguard wages, while the extensive training and equipment needed is provided by the charity through public donations. RNLI lifeguards work alongside other emergency services and teams integral to an enjoyable visit to the beach.
Richard Gillen, Coast and Countryside Manager at Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council: ‘The partnership between Council and RNLI in providing beach lifeguarding services is invaluable. As visitors continue to enjoy the coastline either in and on the water or on a beach, we want them to do so safely. The RNLI lifeguards are a key component in ensuring the visitor experience is safe and enjoyable.’
The RNLI in partnership with the Councils and National Trust will carry out their usual lifeguard service this year across Northern Ireland in its standard phased approach. The first beaches for Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council will go on service from Good Friday 7 April, ahead of the Easter weekend, and the number across the whole of Northern Ireland will gradually increase through the season until the peak school summer holidays when all beaches are patrolled.
Find your nearest at rnli.org/find-my-nearest/lifeguarded-beaches.
The RNLI is urging anyone visiting the coast this summer to make sure they keep themselves and their families safe by following their beach safety advice.
· Check the weather forecast, tide times and read local hazard signage to understand local risks.
· For activities like paddleboarding or kayaking we recommend you wear a wetsuit, buoyancy aid or lifejacket and carry a means of calling for help in a waterproof pouch and keep it on you. Tell someone what you are doing, where you are going and when you expect to return.
· If you are going open water swimming, use a wetsuit to keep you warm, wear a bright coloured swim hat and take a tow float to store personal items including a phone for emergencies
· If you fall into the water unexpectedly, FLOAT TO LIVE. Fight your instinct to thrash around, lean back, extend your arms and legs, and Float.
· In an emergency dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
If you are interested in working on the beach this summer, there are still lifeguard positions available. You will receive world-class lifesaving training, enjoy good rates of pay, the possibility of flexible working patterns and develop valuable skills for their future career. Find out more about becoming a lifeguard at rnli.org/BeALifeguard.
Photo Credit:
RNLI/Trevor Benson
Arklow RNLI launch to assist a sailing vessel with engine trouble
Arklow RNLI launch to assist a sailing vessel with engine trouble
Monday 3 April 2023
At 12:05 am on Monday 3 April, Arklow lifeboat was requested to launch by the Irish Coast Guard following a report that a sailing vessel had lost power and was adrift with two persons on board, three miles South South East of Arklow.
Once on scene, the Arklow All-weather lifeboat Ger Tigchelaar under Coxwain Ned Dillon approached the vessel to assess the situation, it was decided to set up a towline. In calm conditions a lifeboat crew member was transferred to the casualty vessel to assist with rigging the towline.
Once the tow was established the lifeboat slowly proceeded back to Arklow with the casualty on tow.
The volunteer crew members on this call out were Coxswain Ned Dillon, Brendan Dillon, Eddie McElheron, Aiden Downey, David Molloy, Aaron O’Neill and Josh McAnaspie.
Following the callout, Mark Corcoran Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer said:
“Huge thanks to all of our crew who turned up for this callout this morning, the dedication of our volunteers who leave their beds to assist those in need is second to none, as we move into the Spring part of the year, just a reminder to boat owners, please make sure your engines are serviced and please check and re check all of your safety devices and equipment before going to sea”
Photo Credit:
RNLI/Arklow
Photo: RNLI/Rosslare Harbour
Wednesday 29 March 2023
Rosslare Harbour RNLI launch to the aid of a fishing vessel with five people on board
Rosslare Harbour RNLI launch to the aid of a fishing vessel with five people on board
The volunteer crew at Rosslare Harbour lifeboat station were requested to launch by the Irish Coast Guard to go to the aid of a fishing vessel located four miles south of the Tuskar Rock with five people onboard had developed a fouled propeller.
Photo: RNLI/Gerry Canning
Tuesday 28 March 2023
Skerries RNLI respond to reports of a person in distress in the water
Skerries RNLI respond to reports of a person in distress in the water
Skerries RNLI responded to reports that there was possibly a person in distress in the water off the south strand in Skerries.
Photo: RNLI/Connie O'Gara
Monday 27 March 2023
Wicklow RNLI volunteers undergo intensive casualty care training
Wicklow RNLI volunteers undergo intensive casualty care training
Eleven volunteer crew members at Wicklow RNLI took part in intensive casualty care training at the lifeboat station recently.
Photo: RNLI/Peter Grogan
Sunday 26 March 2023
Dunmore East RNLI rescue three fishermen after boat fouls propeller
Dunmore East RNLI rescue three fishermen after boat fouls propeller
Dunmore East RNLI rescued three men onboard a fishing vessel after they got into difficulty at sea.
Photo: RNLI/Skerries
Thursday 23 march 2023
Skerries RNLI assist man in multi-agency rescue
Skerries RNLI assist man in multi-agency rescue
Skerries RNLI assisted a man as part of a multi-agency rescue after his car entered the water at the slipway in front of the lifeboat station.
Photo: RNLI/Clifden
Monday 20 March 2023
Clifden RNLI assist a broken-down vessel with three people on board
Clifden RNLI assist a broken-down vessel with three people on board
The volunteer crew were called out to assist a vessel suffering mechanical failure near Inish Turk, County Galway.
Photo: RNLI/Lough Ree
Monday 20 March 2023
Lough Ree RNLI volunteer lifeboat crew rescue two fishermen from river
Lough Ree RNLI volunteer lifeboat crew rescue two fishermen from river
Lough Ree RNLI volunteer lifeboat crew responded to a call for assistance to two fishermen in a lake boat who got into difficulties on the River Shannon in Athlone.
Photo: RNLI/Lough Derg
Sunday 19 March 2023
Lough Derg RNLI assist 40 people on 40ft passenger vessel aground at Bonaveen Pt
Lough Derg RNLI assist 40 people on 40ft passenger vessel aground at Bonaveen Pt
On Saturday afternoon 18 March 2023, Valentia Coast Guard requested Lough Derg RNLI lifeboat to assist forty people on a 40ft passenger vessel aground on a rocky shoal off Bonaveen Point on the County Galway shore, at the north-western end of Lough Derg.
Photo: RNLI/Galway
Friday 17 March 2023
Galway RNLI called out to assist swimmer on St Patrick’s Day
Galway RNLI called out to assist swimmer on St Patrick’s Day
The Galway RNLI volunteer lifeboat crew was requested to launch by the Irish Coastguard following a report of a swimmer in difficulty off Blackrock Diving Tower in Salthill.
Photo: RNLI/Nigel Millard
Monday 13 March 2023
Clifden RNLI search North Connemara Coast after emergency beacon activation
Clifden RNLI search North Connemara Coast after emergency beacon activation
The volunteer crew joined in a multi-agency operation after an emergency signal was activated in the area around Letterfrack, County Galway.