Wicklow RNLI assist two vessels with engine failure
Wicklow RNLI volunteers brought five people to safety during two call outs on Saturday (13 August) after their boats suffered engine failure off the Wicklow coast.
The first call out came at 4:30pm, when the all-weather lifeboat slipped it’s moorings from the south quay and proceeded north, to investigate a report of a vessel drifting south of Greystones Harbour.
A small angling boat was located a short time later south of Greystones Harbour near the Breaches buoy. Weather at the time was excellent with good visibility and calm conditions.
A quick inspection was carried out by Coxswain Nick Keogh and the vessel with three people on board was found to have suffered engine failure and unable to get back to shore without assistance. The boat was taken in tow to Greystones harbour by the lifeboat and the three people were landed safely ashore at 5:40pm.
The second call out came as the lifeboat was arriving back at Wicklow Harbour at 6:20pm. Coxswain Keogh put to sea again, this time heading south towards Magheramore Beach.
The lifeboat located a rigid inflatable boat with two people on board anchored off Magheramore beach after it suffered engine failure. The rib was taken in tow back to Wicklow Harbour and the two people were landed safely ashore at 7:30pm.
Speaking about the call out, volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer for Wicklow RNLI, Tommy Dover said: ‘ When going afloat we would remind everyone to check their engine and fuel, always wear a lifejacket or buoyancy aid, and carry a means of calling for help. If you see someone in difficulty on or near the water, dial 999 and ask for the Coast Guard’
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
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