Wicklow Lifeboat Station opened its doors and lifeboats to the public for its annual open day last Sunday 19 July.
The volunteer RNLI crew members and fundraisers had worked hard running up to the open day to ensure the facilities were ready to welcome the public.
During the afternoon, in glorious sunshine, the fundraising team provided endless supplies of tea, coffee, cakes and cool drinks. The lifeboat crew provided tours of the lifeboat station and the inshore lifeboat, and answered any questions asked by children and adults alike.
Both lifeboats, the all-weather Bridie O’Shea and the inshore Denis Audrey, were available for the public to view. The crew were happy to discuss the equipment onboard and inform the public of the roles they have within the station.
A scale model of the former Wicklow lifeboat Annie Blaker was on display in the boathouse and attracted a lot of interest among visitors.
There was a demonstration of the capabilities of the lifeboats provided during a simulated rescue in the harbour. The public were shown a breeches buoy (a method of recovering someone from land when the all-weather lifeboat can’t get too close), a man overboard drill and the manoeuvrability of the lifeboats. Nathan O’Connor kindly volunteered to go into the water for the demonstrations.
The station mascot Stormy Stan also made an appearance meeting, greeting and posing for photos with all the children that were down for a look.
Jimmy Myler hosted a lifejacket clinic, where members of the public could seek advice on the right type of lifejacket for their activities. Advice was also given on how to properly maintain lifejackets.
John Hayden provided practical advice on the RNLI Float to Live campaign. During the afternoon he shared the simple lifesaving technique that could help you survive if you unexpectedly enter cold water.
Members of the Garda, Irish Coast Guard, Community First Responders Wicklow Town, Medicall Ambulance Service and Codling Wind Park were in attendance to demonstrate their equipment and engage with the public.
Visitors were also treated to a flypast by the Garda Air Unit helicopter, with the crew even giving a friendly wave as they passed overhead.
Music for the afternoon was provided by local musicians, including a traditional session by members of The Boathouse CCE.
Speaking after the event, Joe Healy, Wicklow RNLI operations manager said: “We’d like to thank the public for visiting us today. Thanks to all the local businesses and supporters who helped us. It was great to see so many people come down and have a look around.
“The crew are proud of their station, and the open day is our way of saying thanks to the local community for all the donations and support we receive throughout the year.”
