Wicklow RNLI brought five people to safety yesterday afternoon (Wednesday, 5 June), after their vessel developed mechanical problems five and a half miles south of Wicklow Harbour.
The all-weather lifeboat RNLB Joanna & Henry Williams slipped its mooring at 4:10 pm to reports of a white rib with five persons on board, which had developed engine failure. The lifeboat under the command of Coxswain Nick Keogh was followed quickly by the inshore lifeboat Dennis Audrey, helmed by Paul Sillery.
The volunteer lifeboat crews located the vessel approximately 15 minutes after launching in a position five and a half miles south of Wicklow Harbour. Conditions on scene were blowing north westerly force 2-4, with slight seas and good visibility.
Once on scene, the volunteer crews assessed the situation. Given the fact that the rib was unable to make safe progress without any means of propulsion, a decision was made to establish a tow. The rib was towed by the inshore lifeboat to the nearest safe location which was Jacks Hole.
The vessel was secured a short time later, and all five casualties were assessed as being ok with no further attention required.
Speaking after the callout, Deputy LPO Connie O’Gara said, “This was a quick response by the crew and that, along with their training, helped bring five people safely ashore, and we wish them well.
Five Rescued by Both Wicklow RNLI Lifeboats After RIB Breaks Down Offshore
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