Wicklow RNLI volunteers rescued two people from the water after their rowing boat capsized near Wicklow Harbour on Wednesday evening. The inshore lifeboat was launched at 6.42 pm following reports from a member of the public that two people were in the water approximately 200 metres north of the harbour.
As Wednesday is the station's regular training night, crew members were already at the lifeboat station and launched within three minutes of the pager alert. With Alan Goucher at the helm, the inshore lifeboat made its way quickly to the scene.
On arrival, volunteers found the two casualties in slightly choppy conditions holding onto their overturned rowing boat. Both were taken aboard the lifeboat and brought safely ashore beside the local rowing club.
After assessing the casualties and confirming that no further assistance was required, the RNLI crew returned to the capsized boat. By then, members of the rowing club had arrived and were already dealing with the vessel. The lifeboat crew were subsequently stood down and returned to station, where the boat was prepared for its next service call.
Speaking afterwards, RNLI helm Alan Goucher praised the person who raised the alarm. "I would like to wish the two casualties well and we are happy with the positive outcome," he said. "I would also like to commend the member of the public who made the call for help. Their call was vital in this positive outcome."
Mr Goucher also reminded water users to wear appropriate lifejackets or buoyancy aids and to carry a suitable means of communication. He added, "If you see anyone in trouble on the water, please call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard."
