Clifden RNLI responds to two medical evacuations
Clifden RNLI has carried out two medical evacuations from the island of Inishbofin since Friday.
The pagers first sounded at 11.15am on Friday in response to a call for a medical evacuation. Clifden's D Class inshore lifeboat and crew were already on the water in Clifden Bay carrying out a scheduled exercise. The crew transferred to the Atlantic 85, helmed by Joe Acton and arrived at the island before the Coast Guard helicopter Rescue 118 which was also tasked. Crew member Sinead Pryce assisted the casualty, an elderly lady in need of hospital treatment, and the lifeboat and helicopter worked together to ensure a seamless transfer.
Yesterday morning, (Saturday 24 June), the pagers once again sounded shortly after 7.15am. A woman had become suddenly unwell. The all-weather boat Fisherman's Friend was requested to respond and a crew was assembled including Coxswain Alan Pryce, mechanic Robert King, navigator Owen Hayes and crew Brian Ward and Neil Gallery.
The casualty was transferred to the all weather boat by the crew and island nurse and taken to Cleggan pier where an ambulance was waiting.
Speaking following the call outs, John Brittain, Clifden RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager said: 'It has been a busy summer week for the Clifden lifeboats with three launches taking place involving our different boats in different scenarios. I want to thank the crew for responding to their pagers promptly in these cases so that we can continue to carry out this vital service in our local community'.
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