Early morning call out for Carrybridge RNLI to locate an activated EPIRB

Winds were Easterly, Force 1. Visibility was good with clear skies.

Once on scene the volunteer lifeboat crew carried out a search in the surrounding area to locate the activation signal, but nothing was located.

The lifeboat crew then carried out a wider search around the waters of Crom Estate and towards Belturbet. The crew started to pick up the activation signal from the EPIRB at 5 different locations, all pointing towards the same compass bearing from the lifeboats position. This information was relayed to Belfast Coastguard.

Lough Erne Coastguard Rescue Team were also in attendance carrying out a land based search of the area, whilst the Irish Coast Guard Helicopter, Rescue 118, based in Sligo were also tasked and arrived on scene and quickly pinpointed the exact location of the EPIRB activation based on the information provided by the lifeboat crew.

The volunteer lifeboat crew made their way by water, whilst Lough Erne Coastguard Rescue Team travelled by road to the EPIRB’s pinpointed location and were able to confirm that they had located the activated device at a private property on the lough shore.

Once it was confirmed that no one was in danger and that this was an accidental activation, all rescue units were stood down and returned to their bases.

Speaking following the call out, Chris Cathcart, Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer at Carrybridge RNLI noted: ‘‘This was an early callout for the crew for an activation of an EPIRB which is always taken very seriously. Thankfully this was resolved after some hours searching with it being a false activation. 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

Photo Credit: Carrybridge RNLI

Notes to editors

· Carrybridge Lifeboat Station was started in 2002 on Upper Lough Erne. It currently operates an Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat

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