Howth RNLI launched the inshore lifeboat Saturday 1st July to reports of 2 dinghy sailors finding it difficult to return to Portmarnock beach in heavy offshore winds.
The inshore lifeboat was tasked at 7.25pm to the scene just off Portmarnock beach and located a Grandfather, his grand-daughter and a lifeguard from the beach in separate dinghies trying to sail back to the shore against strong winds. The smaller dinghy was dismasted and under tow from the larger laser type dinghy.
As the young girl was showing signs of cold and fatigue the volunteer lifeboat crew called for an ambulance to meet them at the beach.
The casualties were taken aboard the lifeboat and the sailing dinghies taken in tow back to the beach where the young girl was met by her Father who had raised the alarm. Both sailors were treated and checked by the ambulance crew on arrival.
The wind was Force 5 and the sea state was moderate at the time
Speaking following the call out, Stephen Harris, Howth RNLI DLA said: ‘We were delighted to assist the sailors after they found themselves in difficulty. The Father had quickly radioed for assistance which was the correct thing to do and we were able to launch and bring the sailors to safety.’