Larne RNLI comes to aid of a man after boat runs aground south of Ballylumford
Larne RNLI came to the aid of a man yesterday (Sunday 3 April) after his boat ran aground.
The volunteer crew were requested to launch their inshore lifeboat by Belfast Coastguard following reports that a 5.5m rigid inflatable boat (RIB) was suffering from engine troubles.
Weather conditions at the time were described as overcast with a slight breeze.
The crew launched the lifeboat, Terry, at 5.40pm and made their way towards the vessel’s last reported location south of Ballylumford.
Arriving on scene, the crew observed the RIB had gone aground. At this point, a crew member was tasked to swim out to the boat to ensure that the one person onboard was safe and well, which they were. A decision was then made to establish a tow line in order to bring the boat back to the nearest safe port which was its launch site at Larne Boat Club.
On arrival at Larne Boat Club, the Larne Coastguard team helped to recover the boat back onto dry land.
Speaking following the call out, Larne RNLI Helm Barry Kirkpatrick said: ‘As we approach the Easter season, we would remind everyone that it is important when planning a trip to sea to ensure you have a means of communication should you need help including a VHF handheld radio and a phone. Also ensure that your equipment is checked over and in good working condition and always wear a lifejacket when taking to the water. Should you get into difficulty, dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.’
ENDS
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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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