Red Bay RNLI rescue three canoeists off rocks at Ballycastle following capsize
Volunteer lifeboat crew at Red Bay RNLI rescued three people off rocks at Ballycastle this afternoon (Saturday 19 May 2018) when two canoeists capsized and had to scramble onto rocks to safety.
A third canoeist who tried to assist them was also rescued from the rocks.
Both the all-weather and inshore lifeboats at Red Bay were launched at 2.30pm following reports that three people were stranded on the rocks in a remote area at Ballycastle. It is understood that two of the three canoeists capsized and the other canoeist tried to assist them. They managed to scramble onto rocks at Ballycastle and raise the alarm. The Ballycastle coastguard until were also on scene. Conditions at the time were described as breezy.
When coming on scene the inshore lifeboat recovered the three canoeists safely on board before transferring them onto the all-weather lifeboat and bringing them to Ballycastle Harbour. The canoes were also recovered from the water.
Commenting on the callout, Red Bay RNLI Lifeboat Press Officer Paddy McLaughlin said, ‘Even during good weather people can get into difficulty. Luckily following the capsize, the three people in the water were near to rocks, they could reach and call for help. All three people were uninjured. We would always advise people who are engaging in canoeing or kayaking to make sure they are wearing a proper floatation device and that they have a means for calling for help.’
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For information please contact Paddy McLaughlin Red Bay RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer Tel: 078 02 308821 Niamh Stephenson RNLI Public Relations Manager on 00 353 87 1254 124 email
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