Bundoran RNLI Rescues Swimmer in Difficulty off Main Beach
- Pat Nolan
- 3 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Thursday 20 August 2026
Bundoran RNLI rescued a swimmer who got into difficulty off Main Beach yesterday evening (Wednesday 19 August), following an alert raised by a member of the public.
The volunteer crew were requested to launch their inshore lifeboat by the Irish Coast Guard at 4.42pm after a member of the public heard someone shout and spotted a swimmer in difficulty.
The lifeboat, helmed by Rory O’Connor, with crew members Richard Gillespie and David Clancy onboard, launched immediately and made the short journey to the scene. A beach lifeguard on patrol also responded, while the Irish Coast Guard helicopter, Rescue 118 from Sligo, was also tasked to assist.
Although weather conditions were good at the time, sea conditions were challenging, with a 2m swell and breaking waves.
On arrival, the lifeboat crew observed the swimmer, who was wearing a wetsuit, attempting to swim on their back but struggling in the conditions. Working between the breaking swells, the crew were able to reach the casualty, bring them safely aboard the lifeboat and return them to the pier.
As there was a concern that the swimmer may have taken in water, an ambulance was requested and the casualty was transferred to hospital as a precautionary measure.
Once the swimmer was safely ashore, the lifeboat crew returned to the water to bring the beach lifeguard onboard and safely back to shore.
Speaking following the callout, Bundoran RNLI Helm Rory O’Connor said:
“We would like to wish the casualty well following their experience yesterday. While prepared by wearing a wetsuit, the conditions off Main Beach caught them out and they got into trouble in the breaking line of the swell.
“We would also like to commend the member of the public who raised the alarm when they spotted the casualty in difficulty and we want to thank the beach lifeguard, helicopter and ambulance crews who also responded.
“We would encourage anyone planning a dip or swim to go prepared by checking conditions in advance and to seek local knowledge on the risks and hazards of the area. Don’t swim alone, always wear a bright coloured cap, use a tow float and carry a fully charged mobile phone in a waterproof pouch.”
The RNLI is also reminding people of its Float to Live advice for anyone who unexpectedly finds themselves in difficulty in the water.
Rory O’Connor said:
“Instinctively, most people who find themselves struggling in the water will begin to panic, swim, or thrash about.
“We’re urging people to ignore this instinct and remember to float: Tilt your head back, with your ears submerged. Relax and try to breathe normally. Move your hands and legs to help you stay afloat if you need to. It’s fine if your legs sink – we all float differently.
“By doing this, you give yourself the chance to rest and recover your breathing. Once you’ve regained control of your breathing, you can call for help or swim to safety.”
The RNLI continues to encourage anyone heading into the water to check conditions beforehand, seek local knowledge, avoid swimming alone and carry appropriate safety equipment. If you see someone else in difficulty, raise the alarm and call for help.
