Fenit RNLI respond to late night call after object spotted off Ballyheigue Beach

Both Fenit RNLI's all-weather and inshore lifeboats with full crews launched at approximately 10.30pm. The crew arrived at the scene and a search was conducted. Following a search of the area the item was found to be the remains of a fishing item.

The call was raised with good intention and the lifeboat team is always clear that this is absolutely the correct course of action should anyone ever have concern in relation to safety at sea. Both crews returned to Fenit Pier at approximately 12.20am this morning.

Fenit RNLI has had a busy week, with this being the seventh call out in as many days. The previous call outs ranged from being called to assist surfers potentially in danger, towing a number of vessels back safely to various harbours in North and West Kerry and assisting a large vessel which ran aground. The station's volunteers also provided a safety escort for a number of swimmers who carried out a fundraising event for Fenit RNLI last Saturday morning. On all occasions anyone in possible danger was returned to shore safely.

Speaking after the busy week, Ger O'Donnell, Fenit RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager said: 'All RNLI lifeboat volunteer crews are extremely cognisant particularly at this time of year and with the recent spell of good weather that more people are attending beaches and using the water.

'We would like to take this opportunity to remind people to always respect the water and be prepared before going to sea. Always wear a lifejacket, always carry a means of communication and always let someone on the shore know where you are going and when you are due back. If there is ever any doubt whatsoever about anyone's safety, dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.'

For more water safety advice visit to https://rnli.org/safety

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For more information please telephone Jackie Murphy, Fenit RNLI Lifeboat Press Officer on 087 832 2605.

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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 142,700 lives.

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