Dun Laoghaire RNLI involved in rescue of three swimmers off Vico Baths in Dalkey

The volunteer crew were requested to launch their inshore lifeboat Joval, following a report of four sea swimmers in difficulty off the Vico Bathing Place at 6.31pm. The alarm was raised with the Irish Coast Guard by a vigilant member of the public who had spotted the group of open water swimmers in distress some distance from the shore. The Irish Coast Guard helicopter, Rescue 116 from Dublin was also tasked.

The lifeboat helmed by Laura Jackson with Ciara Doran and Dan Philips onboard, launched immediately.

Once on scene, the helicopter crew located the fatigued swimmers who had struggled to return to the bathing spot as the current was against them.

One swimmer managed to make ashore on their own. The remaining three were rescued by the lifeboat crew, assisted by the Greystones Coast Guard. The casualties were returned safely to the bathing spot. Dun Laoghaire Coast Guard was on hand to help them ashore.

Speaking following the call out, Dun Laoghaire RNLI Helm Laura Jackson said: 'We would like to wish the swimmers well and thank our colleagues in the various emergency services for the great teamwork.

‘Rips are strong currents running out to sea, which can quickly drag people and debris away from the shallows of the shoreline and out to deeper water. They are especially powerful in larger surf and while they can be difficult to spot, they are sometimes identified by a channel of churning, choppy water on the sea's surface.

'To avoid a rip current, we would encourage swimmers to choose a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags. Wear a bright coloured cap and swim with others, never go alone. If you do find yourself caught in a rip, don’t try to swim against it or you’ll get exhausted. If you can stand, wade don’t swim. If you can, swim parallel to the shore until free of the rip and then head for shore. Always raise your hand and shout for help. If you see someone in difficulty or suspect they are in difficulty, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.'

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RNLI media contacts

For more information, please contact Aoife Ward, Dún Laoghaire RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer on 085 140 2472, email: a[email protected] or contact Nuala McAloon RNLI Regional Media Officer Ireland on 00353876483547 or email [email protected] or Niamh Stephenson RNLI Regional Media Manager Ireland on 00353871254124 or [email protected]