Fethard RNLI assist three people onboard a fishing vessel off Baginbun Head
Volunteer lifeboat crew at Fethard RNLI were requested to launch their lifeboat on Friday morning (19 January) at 11.11am to assist a broken down 24ft fishing vessel.
Fethard RNLI’s inshore lifeboat was launched, and the crew made their way to Baginbun Head in force 3/4 winds and choppy sea conditions. After assessing the situation and learning that the boat had suffered a gearbox problem, the Helm of the lifeboat, Thomas Stafford, decided that the safest course of action was to tow the boat, with the crew onboard, to the safety of Fethard Harbour.
Speaking after the call out, Volunteer Deputy Launch Authority Pete Barry said: ‘The crew went to sea, well prepared, with a means to call for assistance. It shows the importance of having the right equipment to call for help when you see someone in trouble on the water or you are in difficulties yourself. The number to dial is 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.’
RNLI media contacts
For more information please contact Fethard RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer Mark Brennan Tel: 086 26 79624 email: [email protected] or Niamh Stephenson, RNLI Regional Communications Lead Tel: 087 1254 124 or [email protected] or Nuala McAloon, RNLI Regional Communications Manager Tel: 087 648 3547 or email [email protected]
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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