Dun Laoghaire RNLI rescue child in the water off the East Pier

In challenging conditions, a crew member entered the water and the casualty was brought onto the lifeboat and returned to shore, to be met by Dublin Fire Service and the HSE Rapid Response Unit.

Following a request by the Coast Guard, the inshore lifeboat was launched at approximately 8.15pm and the volunteer lifeboat crew were on scene in minutes. When arriving at the incident, the lifeboat crew were directed, by members of Dun Laoghaire Coast Guard’s shore-based unit, to the position of the casualty in the water. The young child was floating on their back, responsive and calling for help. Due to the sea conditions, it was decided the safest course of action was for a crew member to enter the water, where they kept the casualty’s head supported while the lifeboat came alongside. When they were safely aboard, the lifeboat crew returned to shore, where they were met by members of Dun Laoghaire RNLI, Dublin Fire Service and the HSE Rapid Response Unit.

Commenting on the callout, Dun Laoghaire RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager Ed Totterdell said, ‘Our thoughts are with the young child and their family, after what must have been a frightening experience. We would also like to thank the members of the public who raised the alarm by contacting the Coast Guard so quickly.

‘I am very proud of my lifeboat crew for their actions and swift response. We train every week for every possible scenario and this was one of those times where every second counted. I hope that this young person makes a full and swift recovery.’

If you find yourself in the water, the RNLI advice is FLOAT TO LIVE. Lie on your back and make a star shape, relax and try to control your breathing, using your hands to help you stay afloat.

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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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Contacting the RNLI - public enquiries

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