Surfer gets into trouble

A surfer was saved this week after getting into difficulty in West Cork.

The Courtmacsherry All Weather Trent Class RNLI Lifeboat was called out on Sunday afternoon at 3.40pm to go to the immediate aid of a surfer who had got into difficulty off Garrettstown beach near the Old Head of Kinsale.

This was the eighth callout so far in 2021 by the Courtmacsherry crew.

The Courtmacsherry Lifeboat, under Coxswain Ken Cashman and a crew of four, was on its way within minutes and proceeded at full speed to the area of the causality in what the RNLI crew said was a “swelly sea”.

The Lifeboat reached the area within 15 minutes but, with the help of family members, the casualty was already able to get ashore to safe surrounds. The Old Head/Seven Heads Coastguard Unit was also on scene quickly.

Courtmacsherry RNLI Voluntary Lifeboat Operations Manager Brian O’Dwyer said: “It was great to see the fast response of so many of our voluntary crew which ensured that we were at the scene very quickly.”

Brian reiterated that is so important to call the rescue services at 112 or 999 quickly once any incident like this occurs as the various rescue services are always at the ready, 24 hours a day.

Be prepared

As the lockdown continues, Courtmacsherry RNLI has stressed to everyone partaking in any water activities to follow RNLI safety advice, all Government regulations and to stay safe in these different times for all rescue services.

• Have a plan - check the weather forecast, tide times and read local hazard signage

• Keep a close eye on your family – on the beach, on the shoreline and in the water

• Don’t allow your family to swim alone

• Don’t use inflatables at all, at all on the sea

• Make sure to wear a Lifejacket at all times when taking to the sea in a boat

• If you fall into the water unexpectedly, float to live. Fight your instinct to thrash around, lean back, extend your arms and legs, and float

• In an emergency dial 999 or 112 immediately and ask for the coast guard.