Wicklow RNLI opens its doors and lifeboats to the public

The volunteer crew members and fundraisers had worked hard in the months running up to the day to ensure the facilities were ready to welcome the public. The fundraising team provided endless supplies of tea, coffee and sweet treats. The lifeboat crew provided tours of the lifeboat station and the inshore lifeboat and answered any questions asked by children and adults alike.

Both lifeboats, the RNLB Bridie O’Shea along with the D class Denis Audrey were available for the public to view. The crew were happy to discuss the equipment onboard and inform the public of the roles they have within the station.

There was also a demonstration of the capabilities of the lifeboats provided during a simulated rescue in the harbour. The public were shown breeches buoy (a method of recovering someone from land when the all-weather lifeboat can’t get too close), man overboard drill and the manoeuvrability of the lifeboats.

The station mascot Stormy Stan also made an appearance meeting, greeting and posing for photos with all the children that were down for a look. The crew also took the opportunity to take a crew photo.

There was a lifejacket clinic where members of the public could seek advise on the right type of lifejacket for their activities. Advice was also given on how to properly maintain lifejackets.

Members of the Gardaí, Fire Service, Civil Defence and the Coast Guard were in attendance to demonstrate their equipment and engage with the public.

Speaking after the event, Connie O'Gara, Wicklow RNLI Deputy Lifeboat Press Officer said: ‘We’d like to thank the public for visiting us for the open day. Thanks to all the local businesses and supporters who helped us. It was great to see so many people come down and have a look around. It takes a lot of time to organise, but it is a nice way for the crew to say thanks for all the support and donations we receive throughout the year which enables us to continue to save lives at sea.'

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RNLI Media Contact

For more information, contact Connie O'Gara, Wicklow RNLI Deputy Lifeboat Press Officer at [email protected]

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI is the charity that 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 146,700 lives.

Learn more about the RNLI

For more information please visit the RNLI website or Facebook, X, TikTok 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.