Lough Swilly RNLI’s inshore lifeboat Davdot launched at the request of Malin Head Coast Guard shortly before 6pm on Monday (25 May) following reports that a jet ski with one person onboard had broken down near Inch Island.
With the long-awaited heatwave providing sunshine, a gentle breeze and choppy seas, the lifeboat arrived promptly on scene, 3.2 nautical miles south-west of the lifeboat station.
With the assistance of another jet skier, the casualty’s engine had been restarted but had minimal power and was slowly making way. The volunteer crew stayed alongside until all parties were safely ashore at Inch Pier.
At the time of the launch request, Joe Joyce, Lough Swilly RNLI operations manager was hosting a visit from Irish Coast Guard members who are currently training as watch officers.
After the inshore lifeboat launched, the visitors commented: “It was a great opportunity to see what happens at the lifeboat station once a launch request is received from the coastguard.
“As initiators of these launch requests, the observation of volunteers assembling and preparing the lifeboat for launch provides additional insight into the chain of activities that stem from when a 999 call is received.”
After the incident, Eamonn Mahon, Lough Swilly RNLI coxswain commented on good water safety practice: “Always carry a means of calling for help when going afloat and stay with your craft in an emergency — it will keep you afloat and easy to locate. Make sure you are also wearing suitable clothing for the forecasted conditions.
“Should you get into difficulty, or see someone else in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard.”
The incident came after a busy week of casualty care training and crew assessments for the Co Donegal lifeboat station, as previously reported on Afloat.ie.
