Portaferry RNLI crew assist swimmer close to Killyleagh
Portaferry RNLI volunteer crew pagers sounded at 10.10am this morning (Monday 25th May) at the request of Belfast Coastguard after reports of a swimmer carried offshore by the tide close to Killyleagh on the western shore of Strangford Lough.
The volunteer crew of Blair Baillie, Becca Nightingale and lifeboat helm, Paul Mageean, immediately launched the station's inshore lifeboat, Blue Peter V.
Conditions at the time were a force 1 light southerly air, a clear sky with excellent visibility and glassy calm sea state.
On arrival at the scene, the casualty who had just been brought ashore by two other swimmers, was observed to be cold but well.
The lifeboat crew stayed with the casualty while the Coastguard made them more comfortable, before handing over to Northern Ireland ambulance service.
Speaking after the call out, Portaferry RNLI helm, Paul Mageean said: 'The swimmers ashore did exactly the right thing in calling for help as soon as they realised how far from shore the casualty had been carried.
'The weather today is glorious, the water at Killyleagh looks calm and the air temperature has risen, it's easy to forget the dangers.
'We would urge anyone venturing into the water to check weather, wind and tides before leaving shore. Even when swimming with others, inform someone ashore of your plans and what time you plan to return.
'Always stay aware of your surroundings, stay within your depth, and wear a bright cap and tow float to increase your visibility
'Remember if you’re struggling in the water, float to live.
'If you see someone else in trouble in the water, stay ashore, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard. When possible, throw safety equipment to help them float.'
The volunteers at Portaferry RNLI Station wish to extend thanks to the employers of our crew for their understanding, and to the Strangford Lough ferry service for accommodating our launch and recovery.
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For further information, please contact:
Lissa McCully, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for RNLI Ireland, [email protected]
Nuala McAloon, RNLI Regional Communications Manager for Ireland, 087 648 3547, [email protected]
Niamh Stephenson, RNLI Regional Communications Lead for Ireland, 087 125 4124, [email protected]
RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789, [email protected]
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The RNLI is the charity that saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,700 lives.
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