Helvick Head RNLI assists three sailors in broken down cabin cruiser
Helvick Head RNLI came to the aid of three sailors yesterday afternoon (Sunday 21 April) after they got into difficulty and needed assistance near Helvick Head, south west of Dungarvan.
At the request of the Irish Coast Guard, the volunteer crew launched their inshore lifeboat into easterly force 2-3 winds and slight waters. The lifeboat, helmed by Alan Kelly and with crew members Páidí Breathnach, Catherine Reeves and Rian Kelly onboard, made its way to the scene arriving at 5.13pm.
The crew assessed the situation and found the three male casualties to be safe and well with all wearing their personal protective equipment (PPE). As the 20ft cabin cruiser had sustained mechanical failure, a decision was made to tow it back to the nearest safe port at Dungarvan harbour. A tow line was established and the boats arrived safely back to port at 6.15pm.
Speaking following the call out, John Condon, Helvick Head RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager said: ‘We would remind anyone planning a trip to sea to always go prepared. Wear a correctly maintained personal floatation device (PFD) fit for purpose and be sure to carry a means of communication. Should you get into trouble or see someone else in difficulty, dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.’
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.
Learn more about the RNLI
For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. News releases, videos and photos are available on the News Centre.
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.