Sligo Bay RNLI rescues two swimmers caught in rip current off Deadman’s Point
Sligo Bay RNLI rescued two swimmers yesterday evening (Tuesday 7 September) after they got caught in a strong rip current.
The volunteer crew were requested to launch their inshore lifeboat by the Irish Coast Guard at 5.41pm following a report that two swimmers had got into difficulty at Deadman’s Point.
Weather conditions at the time were described as good with light winds, good visibility but with a very strong incoming tide.
The lifeboat launched under Helm Daryl Ewing and with David Bradley, Ross Palmer and Owen McLoughlin onboard and made its way to the scene.
On arrival, the lifeboat crew observed that both swimmers were wearing tow floats which had helped to keep them afloat until the lifeboat reached them. The lifeboat crew checked that they were safe and well before taking them onboard and bringing them back to the lifeboat station where they were made comfortable.
Speaking following the call out, Sligo Bay RNLI Helm Daryl Ewing said: ‘Thankfully both swimmers were safe but they were shocked at how quickly they were taken out by the rip current. Rip currents can be difficulty to spot, but are sometimes identified by a channel of churning, choppy water on the sea’s surface. Even the most experienced beachgoers and swimmers can be caught out by rips so never be afraid to ask for advice and read any local signage.
‘If you do get caught in a rip, don’t try to swim against it or you will get exhausted. If you can stand, wade and don’t swim. If you can, swim parallel to the shore until free of the rip and then head for shore. Always raise your hand and shout for help. If you see someone who you think might be in trouble, don't delay, dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.’
Ends
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.
Learn more about the RNLI
For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, X, TikTok and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.
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.