Red Bay RNLI save lone kayaker off Antrim coast

The kayaker departed at 6.30pm yesterday but got into difficulty some hours later off Cushendun, when his kayak became swamped by sea swells and he was unable to get back to shore safety. Cold and exhausted he managed to raise the alarm with Belfast Coastguard at approximately 11.30pm, who then requested both Red Bay RNLI lifeboats to launch.

Conditions on scene were easterly winds with a heavy sea swell. On arrival the lifeboat crew ascertained that the kayaker needed urgent assistance, and they transferred him from his swamped kayak to one of the lifeboats. Once he was safely onboard, both lifeboats returned to Cushendall where they were met by Ballycastle coastguard. The kayaker was provided with casualty care, following which, he was able to depart after sufficiently recovering.

Commenting on the callout Red Bay RNLI Coxswain Liam O’Brien said, ‘This was a great outcome as the kayaker was in serious trouble after becoming overwhelmed by the sea state and pure exhaustion. ‘Even during the warmest weather, conditions offshore can take a bad turn very quicky and the water is extremely cold. Thankfully the kayaker managed to raise the alarm, and we were able to reach him in time. We wish the man concerned a full recovery.’

‘Always have a means of calling for help and if you end up in the water unexpectedly, float with your head tilted back and your ears submerged with your arms and legs extended. This will calm your breathing and give you time to raise the alarm and call for help. We wish the man concerned a full recovery. To raise the alarm dial 112 or 999 for the Coastguard.’

Ends

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