Valentia RNLI launches to motor cruiser on fire with three people on board

At 1.00pm Valentia Coast Guard requested the Valentia RNLI all-weather lifeboat to assist a motor cruiser on fire, four miles south of Dingle harbour. Weather conditions at the time were described as good with clear visibility, force 3 to 4 with a 3 metre swell.

The motor cruiser was on a passage from Cahersiveen marina to Dingle harbour when the engine caught fire. Nearby vessels went to the aid of the cruiser on seeing smoke bellowing from it. The three casualties had left their vessel and entered an inflatable craft prior to being picked up by a local fishing trawler. Arriving on scene our crew members quickly assessed the cruiser which was completely alight. They then proceeded to bring the three casualties on board the lifeboat for a medical assessment. Two of the casualties suffered smoke inhalation and one sustained minor burns.

All three people received casualty care on board the lifeboat and were then transported to Dingle harbour where they met by awaiting ambulance. All three were taken to University Hospital Kerry for further treatment.

Speaking following the call out, Valentia RNLI Coxswain John Patrick Murphy said: ‘The three casualties were very lucky to have suffered only minor injuries. We would remind anyone to ensure they always have a means for calling help if in difficulty or they see someone else in difficulty and to always were a lifejacket.’

Ends

Notes to editors

• Two photos show motor cruiser a blaze on scene

• One photo shows Lifeboat at Dingle harbour with awaiting ambulance

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For more information please contact Michelle Curran Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer Valentia RNLI Tel: 087 9513824 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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