Bundoran RNLI rescues swimmer caught in rip current

The volunteer crew launched the lifeboat after 3pm when a member of the public raised the alarm after witnessing the swimmer being carried out to sea by the rip current.

Despite the challenging conditions including a south-westerly force 7 to 8 wind and a 3m swell, the crew responded swiftly. Helm Brian Gillespie, along with crew members James Cassidy, Oisín Cassidy, and Finn Mullen, launched the lifeboat within eight minutes of the pagers being activated and arrived on the scene in less than a minute.

The crew assessed the situation and worked quickly to bring the swimmer onboard to ensure their safety. The casualty was then returned to shore and passed into the care of the National Ambulance Service for further medical treatment.

Speaking after the call out, Bundoran RNLI Helm Brian Gillespie said: `The conditions were extremely challenging today with strong winds and rough seas, but our training and teamwork ensured we could respond quickly and work effectively to bring the casualty to safety and we wish them well. We are grateful to the vigilant member of the public who raised the alarm – their quick action made a real difference.

'Rips are strong currents running out to sea. They can be difficult to spot but are sometimes identified by a channel of churning, choppy water on the sea's surface and they are especially powerful in larger surf. If you do get caught in a rip, don’t try to swim against it or you’ll get exhausted. If you can stand, wade don’t swim. If you can, swim parallel to the shore until free of the rip and then head for shore. Always raise your hand and shout for help.

'We would also encourage people to be mindful of weather conditions before planning their swim or any other activity at sea. If you see someone in difficulty in the water, dial 999 or 112 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.