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Wexford RNLI rescue teenager on World Drowning Prevention Day

Lifeboats News Release

Wexford RNLI came to the aid of a teenager who got cut off by the rising tide while swimming to a raft on Friday afternoon, thanks to the quick thinking of his friend ashore, possibly preventing a drowning on World Drowning Prevention Day (25 July).

Wexford RNLI D Class Lifeboat and volunteer crew underway

RNLI/Nathan Williams

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The friend ashore contacted the Irish Coast Guard when the casualty realised it was too dangerous for him to attempt to swim ashore from the raft, as he wasnt a strong swimmer. The Coast Guard then paged Wexford RNLI at 4.57pm who launched and were on scene in the Ferrycarrig area at 5.17pm. The crew quickly located the casualty and took him onboard the D class lifeboat and then safely ashore. The crew praised both the teenagers for alerting the Coast Guard as any number of outcomes could have unfolded if he attempted to swim ashore.

Speaking after the rescue, Helm Ger Doran, highlighted the water safety messages that the RNLI, Irish Water Safety and the Irish Coast Guard have put out today as part of World Drowning Prevention Day. They are urging anyone planning a trip on or near water to go prepared and help make sure they can come home safely: 'This rescue demonstrates the correct action of calling the Coast Guard on 112/999 if someone is in difficulty on or near the water'.

Since the start of this year, there have been 42 drownings in Irish waters, that’s 10 more people than for the same period last year. With the recent warm weather many people have headed to the water to socialise and cool off unaware of the dangers open water presents.

The three organisations say they want people to enjoy recreational activities associated with the water, but are pleading with people to know the risks, plan and prepare, and to look out for each other.

To stay safe:

  • Check the weather and tides before heading out and if walking the shoreline, be vigilant for incoming tides that can cause strandings
  • Be aware of rip currents - strong currents can pull even the most experienced swimmers out to sea
  • Go to lifeguarded beaches, always swim with others, never alone
  • Always swim within your depth and stay within your depth
  • When on the water always wear a lifejacket or buoyancy aid
  • Remember children require constant uninterrupted supervision near water
  • Let someone ashore know of your plans and return time
  • Always have a means to call for help such as a fully charged mobile phone or marine VHF Radio

Wexford RNLI's volunteer crew included helm Ger Doran, Damien Foley, James Flood and David Maguire (Launch Authority) and John McCleane (launch vehicle driver).

ENDS

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.

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About the author

Lorraine Galvin
Lifeboat Press Officer, Wexford Lifeboat Station

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