#RNLI - Howth RNLI volunteers launched their all-weather lifeboat on Sunday (9 August) to assist a 23ft sailing boat when its lone occupant became violently seasick and incapacitated.
The lifeboat was launched at 8.15pm and located the casualty vessel just west of Lambay Island 20 minutes later. There was one male crew member aboard who had been violently ill and unable to sail unaided.
Howth volunteer lifeboat crew Ian Sheridan and Dave Howard were placed aboard the sailing yacht and administered first aid to the sailor, which included oxygen and seasickness treatments.
The casualty was then transferred to the all-weather lifeboat and brought ashore to Malahide to a waiting ambulance. Howard remained aboard the sailing boat until the all-weather lifeboat returned and the vessel was towed to the safety of Malahide Marina.
Weather conditions were very favourable for the operation, with a smooth sea state combined with good visibility and a light southerly Force 2-3 breeze.
Speaking after the callout, Howth RNLI crew member and mechanic Ian Sheridan said: "Our first aid training helped us respond exactly to the immediate needs of the casualty and he was returning to normal health within 20 minutes of our arrival. We were delighted to be of assistance."