Larne RNLI launch to three people who got into difficulty on inflatables
Larne RNLI launched at 3:26pm today (23 July) after a report was received by the UK Coastguard that three persons were being carried out to sea on inflatable toys.
Launching the inshore lifeboat, Terry, on a blustery but very hot day, the inshore lifeboat made its way towards Browns Bay near Islandmagee where the casualties were reported to be.
While making their way towards Browns Bay, the volunteer crew received an update from the Coastguard to confirm that three persons on inflatables were in difficulty, but a small fishing vessel was on the scene offering assistance.
Upon arriving in Browns Bay, it was discovered that the small fishing vessel had already taken one casualty on board and was attempting to take the inflatables and two further casualties.
At this point, the volunteer took over and safely assisted the two additional casualties aboard the lifeboat and recover the two inflatables. The third casualty opted to remain on the fishing vessel.
With the two casualties safely aboard the lifeboat, the crew assessed their condition and returned them, and their inflatables to the beach.
Following the rescue, RNLI volunteer helm, Barry Kirkpatrick, said: ‘We advise you not to use inflatables at the beach as offshore winds can easily sweep you off the shore in a very quick space of time. If you do get into difficulty or see anyone else in difficulty, please remember to call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.’
Key facts about the RNLI
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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