RNLI warn of risk after three callouts

RNLI warn of risk after three callouts

3 August 2016

PORTAFERRY RNLI has urged people to respect the water following three weekend callouts.

The volunteer lifeboat crew was first called out on Friday afternoon when three people got onto difficulties in a small inflatable boat that had broken down off Killyleagh.

After unsuccessful attempts to restart the engine, the lifeboat crew offered their assistance and brought the three people safely back to shore in Killyleagh.

The lifeboat launched for a second time on Friday evening following a 999 call from a member of the public on the shore at the northern end of Strangford Lough.

The lifeboat launched at 7.45pm and made its way to the scene where a man was using a small tender boat to get out to his yacht which was on a mooring between the islands. 

However, with the tide rushing between the islands at six to seven knots, it was making conditions difficult.

The lifeboat went alongside the boat and ensured the man made his way safely to the yacht.

The lifeboat crew was called on for a third time shortly after 6pm on Saturday when a 10m yacht with one onboard motor broke down off the north rock in Cloughey, Portavogie.

The lifeboat crew worked with the yachtsman to establish a towline before bringing the vessel safely into Portavogie.

Brian Bailie, Portaferry RNLI lifeboat operations manager said he would encourage everyone visiting the coastline this summer to enjoy themselves but to respect the water. 

“Always wear a lifejacket and always have a means for calling and signalling for help and ensure everyone know how to use it,” he said.

“Always check the weather forecast and tide times. Make sure someone ashore knows where you are going and who to call if you don’t return on time. 

“Learn how to start, run and maintain your engine and always carry tools and spares.”