In a dramatic rescue operation, the Galway RNLI saved three individuals after their boat capsized off Salthill yesterday evening. The Irish Coast Guard swiftly dispatched the volunteer crew following reports of a small boat in distress off Blackrock in Salthill, with three people in the water. The alarm was raised by a vigilant individual on a nearby boat.
Helm Dave Badger, Aaron Connolly, Sean King, and James Rattigan quickly launched the Atlantic 85 inshore lifeboat and made their way to the scene. Fortunately, sea conditions were favourable, with good visibility enabling the crew to promptly reach the location.
The stranded individuals, who had been in the water for approximately thirty minutes, were successfully rescued and brought safely onboard the lifeboat. They received immediate medical assessment and care before being transferred to shore. Volunteer shore crew assisted with first aid upon the lifeboat's return to the station. Subsequently, paramedics from the National Ambulance Service evaluated the casualties before transporting them to the hospital for further treatment.
The dedicated efforts of the lifeboat crew did not end there, as they ventured back out to sea to secure the capsized boat, towing it back to Galway Docks to prevent it from posing a hazard to others.
Reflecting on the operation, Galway RNLI Helm Dave Badger praised the swift action of a member of the public on another boat, whose alertness was crucial in initiating the rescue. Badger emphasised the significance of wearing lifejackets, which aided in keeping the individuals afloat and visible throughout the incident.
"Accidents can occur unexpectedly, and wearing a lifejacket buys you precious time until help arrives," Badger remarked, stressing the life-saving importance of correctly fitted and maintained lifejackets.
