Bundoran RNLI open day brings emergency services together for a day of community, connection and lifesaving skills

Friday 21 August 2026

For one afternoon this August, Bundoran Lifeboat Station will become a meeting point for some of the people who are there when help is needed most.

Bundoran RNLI lifeboat crew power through the waves during a training exercise. Photo: RNLI/Bundoran

The volunteer crew of Bundoran RNLI will join forces with colleagues from across the emergency services for the sixth annual RNLI and Emergency Services Open Day on Sunday, 30 August.

Taking place from 1pm to 4pm, the free family event offers the public a chance to step inside the world of emergency response, to meet the people behind the uniforms, see specialist equipment up close and discover how different services work together when an emergency unfolds.

There will be plenty to see and do, with emergency vehicles, rescue equipment, demonstrations and interactive activities forming part of the afternoon programme. Visitors can learn about everything from CPR and first aid to water safety, while having the opportunity to chat directly with the personnel who respond to emergencies across land, sea and water.

Among those expected to attend are Bundoran Fire and Rescue Service, An Garda Síochána, the Armed Support Unit, National Ambulance Service, BT Emergency Call Answering Service (ECAS), Donegal Bay Community First Responders, the 28th Infantry Battalion at Finner Camp, Killybegs Coast Guard, Tyrone Underwater Search and Recovery and Donegal Mountain Rescue Team.

Attendance for the participating organisations remains subject to operational requirements.

For Shane Smyth, event organiser and a volunteer with Bundoran RNLI, the open day is about much more than showcasing equipment and emergency vehicles. It is an opportunity to recognise the people who stand ready to help their communities, often at some of the most difficult moments.

“We are incredibly fortunate to have so many dedicated emergency services and volunteer organisations serving our local area,” Shane said.

“Our open day is an opportunity to celebrate the work they do every day, while giving members of the public the chance to meet the people behind the uniforms, explore their equipment and gain a better understanding of how these organisations work together when emergencies happen.”

That spirit of collaboration is at the heart of the event. While the organisations attending have different roles and areas of expertise, emergencies rarely fit neatly into one category. The response can involve multiple services working side by side, each bringing its own skills and experience.

And for those visiting on the day, there is an important practical element too.

“The event is also about education,” Shane said. “Whether it's learning CPR, receiving water safety advice, or simply discovering more about the role of each organisation, we hope visitors will leave with a greater appreciation of the people who work tirelessly to keep our communities safe.”

It is a message echoed by Daimon Fergus, Bundoran RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager, who has seen the open day grow into a much-anticipated fixture in the local calendar.

“Our open day has grown year on year and has become a fantastic showcase of the teamwork that exists between the emergency services across the North West,” Daimon said.

“We are extremely grateful to all of our colleagues who give up their time to attend and share their knowledge and experience with the public.”

For families, it promises an afternoon where curiosity can lead to practical knowledge, perhaps a first introduction to CPR, a conversation about staying safe around the water, or a closer look at the equipment used by those who respond when someone is in trouble.

There will also be an RNLI pop-up shop, where visitors can purchase RNLI souvenirs, with all proceeds supporting the charity's lifesaving work.

At its heart, however, the day is about people: the volunteers, professionals and community responders who work together, train together and answer the call when help is needed.

Everyone is welcome to join the Bundoran RNLI crew and their emergency service colleagues at Bundoran Lifeboat Station on Sunday, 30 August, from 1pm to 4pm.

Admission is free, and visitors can expect an afternoon of demonstrations, discovery and a closer look at the teamwork that helps keep communities across the North West safe.

“We look forward to welcoming everyone to Bundoran Lifeboat Station for what promises to be another enjoyable and informative afternoon,” Daimon said.