Skerries RNLI and Clogherhead RNLI respond to report of vessel on fire

Shortly before 11pm, the volunteer crew from Skerries launched the Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat, while the volunteers in Clogherhead launched their Shannon class all weather lifeboat. The lifeboats reached either end of Laytown beach at approximately the same time and began to search for any vessels in distress.

They were soon joined by land based units from Drogheda Coast Guard and Skerries Coast Guard, who made contact with the caller on the beach to gather more information to pass to the lifeboats. Coast Guard helicopter Rescue 116 and a local fishing vessel also joined the search efforts.

A comprehensive search of the area was carried out, at one point, using white parachute flares to illuminate the search area. Following confirmation from some local fishermen that all fishing vessels in Balbriggan and Mornington were accounted for and further information from the initial caller relayed by Drogheda Coast Guard, Dublin Coast Guard were satisfied that it was a false alarm with good intent and all units were stood down and returned to station.

At the time there was a force one to two south westerly wind with a slight sea swell.

Speaking about the call out, volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for Skerries RNLI, Gerry Canning said: ‘Thankfully it was a good outcome again this evening, and another great example of how well our flanking stations work together along with the other emergency services. We’d also like to thank the fishermen involved for their assistance.’

RNLI media contacts

For more information please telephone Gerry Canning, Skerries RNLI volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer on 087 988 4965 or email [email protected] or Nuala McAloon, RNLI Ireland Media Officer on 087 648 3547 or email [email protected] or Niamh Stephenson, RNLI Ireland Media Manager on 087 1254 124 or [email protected]

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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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

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