Larne RNLI rescues one person onboard broken down boat
Larne RNLI came to the aid of a person onboard a broken-down boat off Islandmagee on Friday afternoon (September 18).
The volunteer crew responded at 2:54pm at the request of HM Coastguard after the person onboard the boat raised the alarm.
Coxswain Chris Dorman, mechanic Derek Rea, crew members Willie Evans, Jordan McIlhinney, Roy McMullan and Shea McFerran made their way to the vessel’s last reported location.
Weather conditions at the time were described as good visibility with a fresh breeze and rolling seas. The boat was located one mile north of the Isle of Muck.
It was established the crew member was safe and the reason for the breakdown was mechanical failure. A tow line was fixed and the boat was taken to the Port of Larne and then returned to Ballylumford Harbour.
Speaking after the call out, Larne RNLI Coxswain, Chris Dorman said: ‘We would like to wish the crew member well. They were wearing the correct safety equipment and had the means to contact the Coastguard. They did the right thing when they realised that they had broken down.
"We would encourage anyone planning a trip to sea to check their vessels and ensure engines are well maintained. When going out, always carry adequate tools and spares and ensure you have enough fuel for your journey. If you do get into difficulty or see someone else in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.”
RNLI lifeboat crews protect hundreds of communities around the UK and Ireland through their 24-hour search and rescue service.