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Enniskillen RNLI in rescue of two injured jet skiers on Lower Lough Erne

Lifeboats News Release

At 6.41pm on Saturday evening (24 August), Enniskillen RNLI’s inshore lifeboat, the John and Jean Lewis, was launched at the request of Belfast Coastguard following reports that two people had come off their jet ski on the north side of Inish Davar.

RNLI/Sam Corr

Enniskillen RNLI

Winds were westerly, Force 4. Visibility was good.

On arrival at the scene, the volunteer crew onboard the lifeboat proceeded to assess two casualties who were being assisted by a crew on a passing boat.

The Irish Coast Guard helicopter, Rescue 118 from Sligo arrived on the scene and assisted Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) personnel to get to the scene, where medical assistance was given to both casualties. The Lough Erne Mobile Coastguard Unit were also at the scene.

Both causalities were transferred to South West Acute Hospital.

Speaking following the call out, Enniskillen RNLI Helm Paul Keown, thanked all those who assisted on Saturday night.

He said: 'We would advise all those on our waterways to check they have appropriate lifejacket or flotation device and a means of calling for assistance if you find yourself in trouble. Make sure you are also wearing suitable clothing for the forecasted conditions. Always carry a means of calling for help on your person. You must be able to reach it easily in an emergency. Tell someone else where you’re going and when you’ll be back. If you see someone in trouble on the water or are in difficulties yourself the number to dial is 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.'

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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