RNLI Rescue Group Of Five After Jet Ski Failure

An RNLI crew was deployed earlier this week after a group of five people became stranded on an island off the coast of County Down.

Three adults and two children were rescued "just on time" on Wednesday evening, 03 July, after getting into difficulty on the Copeland Islands, north of Donaghadee.

They had travelled out in the sunshine but later became stranded due to technical issues with their jet ski. A volunteer group was sent at 7pm after a member of the group made contact using a mobile phone.

The lifeboat then returned to Donaghadee Harbour where the casualties were passed to the care of the Coastguard.

Speaking following the call out, Philip McNamara, Donaghadee RNLI Coxswain said: "I feel we got to the casualties just on time, they were starting to feel the cold after spending quite sometime in the sunshine. They didn't have any water to hydrate or clothing to keep them warm.

"We would remind everyone of the importance of calling 999 if they are in difficulty at sea or on the coastline or if they see someone in trouble, that way the Coastguard can alert the appropriate search and rescue assets to launch. Always respect the water, always wear a lifejacket and always carry a means of communication."



(JG/CM)