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Aran Islands RNLI respond to medical evacuation on Inis Meáin

Lifeboats News Release

At 5.48pm yesterday (Tuesday 3 May), the Irish Coast Guard requested the volunteer lifeboat crew to launch their all-weather Severn class lifeboat, to go to the aid of a patient on the neighbouring Island of Inis Meáin.

RNLI/Aran Islands

Aran Islands RNLI

The lifeboat launched under Coxswain John O'Donnell with a full crew onboard.

Weather conditions at the time were good with a south west Force 3-4 wind blowing, calm seas and good visibility.

Once at the pier in Inis Meáin, the patient was brought safely aboard the lifeboat by the crew and then transferred directly to Rossaveal Harbour and the waiting ambulance.

Speaking after the call out, Aran Islands RNLI Coxswain John O'Donnell said: 'This was a great response time from the volunteer crew who are always there to help anyone in need. We would like to wish the patient a speedy recovery.

'With the summer season fast approaching and the weather improving, we would advise anyone heading to the coast to heed all weather and safety advice. If you are planning a trip to sea, always wear a lifejacket or suitable floatation device for your activity, always carry a means of communication and let someone on the shore know where you are going and when you are due back. Should you get into difficulty, dial 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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