Wicklow RNLI launched twice on Monday afternoon after separate reports of people in difficulty in the water at Silverstrand and Magheramore beaches. Both incidents involved multi-agency responses coordinated by the Coast Guard, with RNLI volunteers, Rescue 116, Coast Guard shore crews and emergency services attending.
The first callout came shortly before 2 pm after reports of two paddleboarders in difficulty at Silverstrand Beach.
The all-weather lifeboat RNLB Bridie O'Shea launched under Coxswain Nick Keogh, followed minutes later by the inshore lifeboat Dennis-Audrey, commanded by helm Mark Kavanagh. On arrival, the crews joined Rescue 116 and local Coast Guard personnel in a search. One paddleboarder had already reached shore and raised the alarm.
"The inshore lifeboat was tasked to search close to shore, and during a sweep along the rocks, the crew spotted a person on the shoreline," Coxswain Nick Keogh said. "They contacted the helicopter crew and gave his position. We stood by as the casualty was winched to safety."
The casualty was airlifted to the hospital by Rescue 116. Both lifeboats then returned to the station and were prepared for service.
Less than three hours later, shortly before 5.30 pm, the station was tasked again following reports of four people in difficulty at Magheramore Beach. The inshore lifeboat, under helm Andrew Carlin, launched first, followed by the all-weather lifeboat under Coxswain Keogh. The crews joined Rescue 116, the local Coast Guard unit and the National Ambulance Service.
The four casualties managed to reach shore before the lifeboats arrived, where they were assessed by ambulance personnel. The RNLI crews remained on scene until they were stood down shortly after 6 pm.
Following the incidents, Wicklow RNLI Launch Authority Iain Fisher urged the public not to use inflatable toys or airbeds at the coast. "Leave all inflatable toys and airbeds on dry land or in the pool," he said. "Always wear a suitable flotation device and carry a means of calling for help. If you see someone in difficulty in the water, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard."
