Lough Ree RNLI volunteers train with Sligo based Irish Coast Guard helicopter
Volunteers from Lough Ree RNLI had a successful training exercise with the Sligo based Irish Coast Guard helicopter, Rescue 118 today (Sunday 11 June).
The lifeboat and helicopter crews came together for a joint training exercise at Lough Ree Yacht Club.
Weather conditions were windy during the exercise with a force 4 up to 6 wind with frequent rain showers blowing through.
On arrival, Rescue 118 landed at the yacht club grounds where the pilot and crew briefed the crew from Lough Ree RNLI after which they invited the RNLI crew, family members and yacht club members to have a tour of the helicopter.
The exercise got underway with the lifeboat crew members being winched between their inshore lifeboat, The Eric Rowse and the helicopter. The strong winds enabled easier hovering for the helicopter, and provided the lifeboat crew with an invaluable experience.
Speaking following the exercise Sarah Bradbury, Lough Ree RNLI Volunteer Deputy Lifeboat Press Officer said: ‘Joint training exercises such as today’s allows our crews to develop their skills, work with and share learning experiences with our colleagues in the Irish Coast Guard and most importantly prepare for working effectively with each other when the time comes and we need to help someone in need.’
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For more information please contact Sarah Groarke Lough Ree RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer Tel: 086 8075253 email: [email protected] or Niamh Stephenson RNLI Public Relations Manager Tel: 087 1254 124 / 01 8900 460 email [email protected] or Nuala McAloon RNLI Press Officer Tel: 087 6483547 email: [email protected]
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The RNLI charity 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 146,000 lives.
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