Six people were rescued by Clogherhead RNLI on Saturday afternoon (12 September) after a group of young paddleboarders and a kayaker got into difficulty off Port Beach in Co Louth.
Clogherhead RNLI volunteers were tasked by the Marine Rescue Co-ordination Centre Dublin (MRCC) at 1 pm after five paddleboarders and one kayaker were dragged out to sea. The group, aged between 11 and 15 and accompanied by one adult, were all wearing lifejackets and wetsuits.
They attempted to stay together, but choppy seas and south-westerly winds of 25-30 knots made this increasingly difficult. Realising the danger, the group called 999 and asked for assistance.
Coast Guard Guides Lifeboat to Group
When Clogherhead RNLI's Michael O'Brien lifeboat reached the area, the Clogherhead Coast Guard Unit had the group in sight and was able to provide the crew with an accurate position. The Coast Guard helicopter also attended the incident.
On reaching the group, the RNLI crew found they were becoming tired and cold after spending time in the choppy conditions.
The six were brought aboard the lifeboat in three separate groups and assessed by an RNLI volunteer crew member who is also an advanced paramedic. They were moved into the lifeboat's casualty and survivor space, where they were kept warm and sheltered during the passage to Port Oriel.
On reaching the harbour, the National Ambulance Service further assessed the group.
First Shout for Three Clogherhead Volunteers
Six lifeboat crew and five shore crew took part in the operation, with other volunteers at Clogherhead Lifeboat Station also assisting. The rescue was the first service call for three volunteers — tractor driver Sean Doherty and crew members Paddy Rath and Kevin Wallis.
Coxswain Sean Flanagan said the rescue had been time-critical.
"It was time-critical that we got to this group before they became too cold and too exhausted," he said. "It was the first shout for three of our crew members today, so fair play to them and the rest of our crew. Six lives were saved this afternoon.
"I would also like to thank the Coast Guard helicopter and the Clogherhead Coast Guard Unit for their help and assistance today."
RNLI Paddleboarding Safety Advice
Following the rescue, the RNLI reminded paddleboarders to check weather, tides and sea conditions before going afloat and to wear a suitable personal flotation device and clothing appropriate to the conditions.
Paddleboarders should wear a suitable leash, hold on to their board if they fall into the water, paddle with a buddy, and tell someone where they are going and when they expect to return.
The charity also advises people to stay within their ability, ensure their equipment is suitable and in good condition, and carry a phone in a waterproof pouch or another way to call for help.
Sea conditions can change quickly, and conditions offshore may be very different from those observed from land.
Anyone getting into difficulty should call 112 or 999 and ask for the Coast Guard. The RNLI also advises people in the water to "Float to Live", remain with their board where possible, make themselves visible and conserve energy while waiting for help.
