Arranmore RNLI rescue three walkers and their dog after they get cut off by tide

In a rescue operation that showcased both skill and the importance of timely action, Arranmore RNLI came to the aid of two men, a woman, and their dog, who found themselves cut off by the tide on the rocks at Maghera Beach at Loughros Mor Bay.

The call for help came at 7.15pm, when Malin Head Coast Guard alerted the all-weather lifeboat crew who were already out on an exercise. The crew immediately diverted to the incident.

Once on scene and having assessed the situation, the crew onboard the Severn class lifeboat, Myrtle Maud, decided to launch their smaller daughter inflatable Y-boat which can easily access the water near rocks or the shore. Onboard, crew members Mickey McHugh and Kieran O'Donnell set about locating the stranded walkers along the rocky shoreline of Loughros Mór Bay. Negotiating the challenging waters, they found the casualties marooned by the rising tide near Maghera Beach at 8.15pm.

The successful removal of the stranded walkers from the rocks was a testament to the training and skill of the lifeboat team. After the rescue, the casualties were transported to Portnoo, where they received further assessment and care from Killybegs Coast Guard before they safely returned to their vehicles.

Speaking following the call out, Arranmore RNLI Coxswain Jimmy Early praised the walkers for their prompt call to the emergency services: ‘It is so important to be aware of one's surroundings when enjoying outdoor activities. We want to commend the professionalism and dedication of our crew too who performed to their very best this evening. This rescue exemplifies the dedication, readiness, and skill of our volunteers who consistently train for all types of scenarios. It also reinforces the importance of cooperation between emergency services and the public when faced with challenging situations.

‘We encourage everyone planning a trip to the coast or on the water to always go prepared. Check weather and tide times, always wear a lifejacket or suitable flotation device for your activity on the water, always carry a means of communication and always let someone on the shore know where you are going and when you are due back. Should you get into difficulty, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.’

Crew on this call out included Coxswain Jimmy Early, mechanic John McHugh and crew members Micky Dubh McHugh, Kieran O’Donnell, JJ O’Donnell, Seamus Bonner and Finbar Gallagher.

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