Bank Holiday rescue for Wicklow RNLI
Wicklow RNLI Inshore lifeboat crew brought a man to safety after his kayak capsized in choppy waters off Wicklow Head this afternoon (Monday 25 October). The kayaker was spotted by members of the public, who contacted the Coast Guard.
The Inshore lifeboat, under the command of helm Alan Goucher and two volunteer crew launched at 4:25pm. They arrived on scene four minutes later and located the casualty on the cliff under Wicklow Head Lighthouse, weather conditions in the area at the time were wind south westerly force five with rough sea.
The kayaker had left Wicklow harbour earlier in the afternoon and intended to travel south along the coast, but due to tidal conditions and rough sea at Wicklow Head the kayak capsized and he was thrown into the water. The man managed to swim towards the cliff and climb five feet above the waterline, to wait until help arrived.
The casualty was transferred onto the lifeboat and landed safely ashore.
Speaking after the call out Wicklow RNLI Press Officer, Tommy Dover said: ‘The casualty was fortunate to have been spotted by walkers at Wicklow Head this afternoon, he was shaken after his ordeal but required no medical attention. We urge anyone going afloat to always carry a means for calling for help and if they get into difficulty dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.’
Crew List
Helm Alan Goucher, Lisa ‘O Leary and John Stapleton.
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
Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.