Fethard RNLI launch to a lone boatman being blown out to sea
Volunteer lifeboat crew at Fethard RNLI were requested to launch their inshore lifeboat by the Irish Coast Guard this afternoon (Friday 22 July) at 3.30pm.
The crew were responding to a call from one of our volunteer helms who observed a lone boatman struggling to make ground with oars whilst being blown away from the shore.
Fethard RNLI’s inshore lifeboat was launched at Fethard Dock and headed to area a half a mile off The Windy Gap. The weather was good, with good visibility and a force 4 South-Westerly wind. The lone boatman took his flat-bottomed punt to check on a bigger vessel that was moored, when the wind overpowered the small craft. Upon arrival at the casualty vessel, the crew assessed the situation, brought the casualty on board the lifeboat, established a towline and towed the vessel to the safety of Fethard Dock.
Today’s call-out marked the first shout for volunteer crew member Ian O’Grady, who dropped tools at a local building site to join the crew.
Commenting about the call out Mick Roche, Volunteer Helm said ‘Today’s shout highlights the huge importance of always having a means to call 999 or 112. It also should encourage all members of the public engaging in water activities to know the local tides and weather, in particular the direction of the wind, and if an offshore wind is blowing.’
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.