The volunteer lifeboat crew of Howth RNLI launched their All-Weather lifeboat on Saturday 27th, and twice on Sunday 28th of July to assist sailors in difficulty.
In all three incidents, each yacht had suffered engine failure east of Howth and was unable to make its way to safety due to light winds. The coxswain of the Lifeboat transferred crew members on board each yacht, and the tow line was secured. The lifeboat proceeded to tow each yacht to safety at Howth Harbour.
Speaking following the call-outs, Howth RNLI coxswain Fred Connolly said: “Our volunteer crew responded quickly to all three incidents over the weekend, and we were able to safely tow three yachts to safety in Howth. The busy shipping lane in Dublin bay can become treacherous very quickly for a boat without power. It was crucial that the sailors called for help right away once they got into difficulty.
As this spell of summer weather continues, we expect to see more people out on the water enjoying themselves, he said.
"If you’re heading out on your boat you need to know how to keep you and everyone on board safe. Make sure you can stay afloat in an emergency with a life jacket, stay in touch with a radio or phone and stay put with a suitable anchor to secure your position", Connolly said.