Union Hall RNLI goes to the aid of one person in a punt.

The lifeboat Christine and Raymond Fielding under helm Stephen Hurley with crew members Charlie Deasy and Richie O’Mahony were underway at 09.00am to go to the assistance of the vessel which was between High and Low Island just outside Glandore harbour.

Once on scene the person told them that the wind had picked up and they were hit by a squall, so they decided to call for help. The conditions at sea at the time were westerly wind, force 4/5 with a one metre swell, so the lifeboat escorted the punt to the nearest safe and suitable port of Carrigillihy bay.

Stephen Hurley, Union Hall RNLI Helm said: ‘the person did everything right, they were wearing a lifejacket and called for assistance when the wind picked up. Our advice is when going out on the water ensure that everyone is wearing a lifejacket, carrying a means of communication, wearing suitable clothing. Also, let someone know where you are going and what time to expect you back.’

Check RNLI.org/respectthewater for safety tips.

Ends

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 142,700 lives.

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Members of the public may contact the RNLI on 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) or by email.