Tramore RNLI rescues two girls adrift on inflatable paddleboards
Tramore RNLI’s volunteer crew were requested to launch their inshore lifeboat today (Tuesday 19 July) after duty lifeguards spotted two paddleboarders in difficulty 600m off Tramore beach.
Pagers alerted the crew at 1.40pm and the D-Class inshore lifeboat helmed by Gerry Brett and with crew members Noirin Phelan and Grace Doyle onboard, was launched minutes later at 1.45pm and made its way to the casualties reported position.
Weather conditions at the time were described as sunny and warm, but with a light offshore wind.
Two girls were located by the lifeboat crew at 1.50pm on inflatable paddleboards.
The casualties had not realised how far out the wind had taken them and were assisted into the lifeboat and taken back to shore.
Speaking following the call out, Tramore RNLI crew member Noirin Phelan said: ‘We are delighted with the outcome of this particular rescue and glad that the two girls are safe and well.
‘While inflatables can be great fun, we would advise that you don’t take them to the beach as they are not designed for open water, and it can take very little breeze for you to be swept out to sea - much quicker than you can swim or paddle back to the shore. Should you get into trouble or see someone else in difficulty, dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.’
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