Portrush RNLI Launched to rescue a paddleboarder from the sea at Portstewart
Both Portrush Lifeboats were requested to launch by the Coastguard today (20th June) at 1.18pm to reports of person on an inflatable paddleboard in difficulty in the sea just off Portstewart.
Both Portrush Lifeboats were requested to launch by the Coastguard today (20th June) at 1.18pm to reports of person on an inflatable paddleboard in difficulty in the sea just off Portstewart.
The Inshore Lifeboat was launched at 1.23 pm initially into a slight sea swell with an offshore wind and made their way to Portstewart. The All-weather boat was then launched at 1.33 pm but stood down at 1.44pm. Weather and visibility were both good.
The ILB arrived on scene at 1.35pm, and successfully recovered the casualty who was 200 metres from shore. The casualty on the board had been blown out to sea, had fallen off and been unable to get back on. The volunteer ILB crew returned the casualty to shore (with the board) where they were handed over to the Coastguard who had requested an Ambulance to be in attendance as a precaution.
Ivor Paul Deputy Launching Authority at Portrush RNLI said:
‘We would urge people not to bring inflatables to the coast as it is so easy to get caught by the wind and within seconds you can suddenly be in danger. If in doubt talk to the Lifeguards and check out the RNLI and Coastguard website for guidance and advice’.
The ILB arrived back on station at 1.55 pm.
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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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