09/08/2010

Cold Swim Ends In Portrush Rescue

There was cold comfort for a teenager who had to be rescued from Portrush Harbour last weekend after he ventured out on a very cold swim to a moored boat to collect some fishing gear.

After swimming across the harbour to the moored boat, the teenager got into difficulties and called for help.

Belfast Coastguard co-ordinated the rescue and sent the Portrush ILB Lifeboat and the Coleraine Coastguard Rescue team to the scene.

The Portrush lifeboat took the teenager from the boat to a pontoon where he received first aid from the Coastguard Rescue team before being transferred to hospital by ambulance.

Belfast Coastguard Watch Manager Alan Pritchard said: "It may be summer but the sea is chilly and the cold can seriously affect swimmers.

"If you are going to take a dip, please know you're limits and remember cold water shock can be dangerous, even if you’re young and fit and think you're able."

(BMcC/KMcA)

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