Kilrush RNLI saves two lives after sailing dinghy capsizes

At 6.02pm, Kilrush RNLI was alerted by Valentia Coast Guard that a sailing dinghy had overturned, leaving two people in the water. With fading daylight, cold water, and challenging sea state, every second counted. The lifeboat crew was paged and launched within eight minutes, demonstrating their rapid response capability.

Upon arrival, Kilrush lifeboat crew faced challenging sea conditions that made locating the casualties and their upturned dinghy difficult. After an intensive search, both casualties were found and quickly retrieved from the water. They were medically assessed onboard, with one showing signs of hypothermia. Recognising the urgency of the situation, the crew immediately returned to Kilrush Lifeboat Station at 6.25pm, where volunteers continued casualty care until an ambulance arrived. Both individuals were later taken to University Hospital Limerick, where they have since made a full recovery.

Shawna Johnson, Kilrush RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager said: ‘This was a frightening experience for the casualties and we are delighted to hear they have made a full recovery and we wish them well.

'From an operations perspective, everything aligned perfectly – from our station mechanic who spotted the dinghy capsize and called the Coast Guard, to the rapid launch of the lifeboat and the expert search and rescue efforts of our crew. The lifesaving work our volunteers do is essential, often challenging, and sometimes dangerous, but they are always prepared to drop everything and respond in a moment’s notice.’

The RNLI reminds everyone to always carry a means of calling for help and wear appropriate safety gear when on the water. If you find yourself unexpectedly in trouble, remember to Float to Live:

• Lie back in the water, keeping your head as far back as possible so your ears are wet.
• Extend your arms and legs and try to remain calm until you regain control of your breathing.
• If you see someone else in danger in the water, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.

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RNLI Media Contacts
For more information, contact Charlie Glynn, Kilrush RNLI Lifeboat Press Officer on 0861996484.

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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