Kilrush RNLI has come to the rescue of two people, after their sailing dinghy capsized in the Shannon Estuary.
The alarm was raised just after 6 o’clock yesterday evening following the incident south of Hog Island.
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 and were subsequently transported to Kilrush Lifeboat station 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.
Kilrush RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager, Shawna Johnson, 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 is reminding people to always carry a means of calling for help and wear appropriate safety gear when on the water.
Anyone who funds themselves unexpectedly in trouble is encouraged to remember to ‘Float to Live’, which means:
- 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.
