
Kayakers rescued by Wicklow RNLI Inshore crew
Two kayakers were brought to safety by Wicklow RNLI Inshore lifeboat volunteers this afternoon (Sunday 3rd September) after they got into difficulties near Wicklow Head.
The Inshore lifeboat was launched shortly after 4pm, after a member of the public walking at Wicklow head made a 999 call to the Coast Guard reporting kayakers were struggling to get ashore.
Speaking after the call out Wicklow RNLI Helm Alan Goucher said: ’We located two men on an inflatable kayak a half mile south east of Wicklow Head, they were trying to paddle against the tide, but realised they were fighting a losing battle as the ebb tide was pushing them further south.’
The kayakers did not require any medical attention and were landed safely ashore at the Glen Strand.
Commenting after the call out Wicklow RNLI Press officer, Tommy Dover said: ‘The good weather over the weekend saw a big increase in leisure craft activity along the coast. Inflatables can pose significant risks, as they are susceptible to changing tides, offshore winds, and currents. We would urge everyone to leave the inflatables at home and not bring them into the sea.’
If you see someone in trouble in the water, please call 112 or 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
Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.