Aran Islands RNLI carries out medical evacuation

The volunteer crew were requested to launch their all-weather Severn class lifeboat at 12.10am this morning.

A patient on Inis Mór was in need of further medical attention.

The lifeboat launched under Coxswain John O'Donnell and a full crew onboard. Conditions at the time of launching were challenging with a strong south west wind blowing and a 3m sea swell.

With the patient safely aboard, the lifeboat headed straight for Rossaveal Harbour and the waiting ambulance where the patient was transferred.

Speaking after the call out, Aran Islands RNLI Coxswain John O'Donnell said: 'Conditions were challenging, it was a dirty night but the volunteer crew didn't hesitate to respond to get the patient on their way to the medical attention needed. We wish them a speedy recovery.

'With the recent weather conditions, we would like to advise the public to follow all weather warnings and if going out to stay safe, stay well back from cliff edges and if you see someone in trouble call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.'

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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