Mile-long swim for two divers as RIB boat engine failure triggers RNLI rescue operation
Larne RNLI came to the aid of four divers onboard a broken-down RIB on Sunday afternoon (November 9).
The volunteer crew responded at 1.47pm at the request of HM Coastguard after one person onboard the RIB raised the alarm.
Weather conditions at the time were described as good and sunny with a slight breeze. The casualties were located approximately eight nautical miles northeast of Larne in shallow seas close to the West Maiden Lighthouse.
It was established that all crew members were safe and that the reason for the breakdown was engine failure – this resulted in two of the divers having to swim for around a mile to get back to the RIB.
Three of the casualties were transferred to the lifeboat where two were provided with casualty care. A tow line was established and the rib was safely returned to the Blue Circle Boat Club.
Speaking following the call out, Larne RNLI Coxswain, Barry Kirkpatrick said: “We would like to wish the divers well. The casualties 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.”
Meanwhile, on Friday afternoon (November 7), Larne RNLI responded to a report of a yacht in difficulty due to engine failure.
Weather conditions at the time were fine with light winds and calm seas. The yacht was located in Browns Bay, Islandmagee, drifting towards shallow waters. A crew member was transferred to the yacht where they found the casualty to be safe and well.
A short tow line was fixed and the yacht was taken out of the bay into deeper waters, where it was no longer drifting and was safely anchored to the seabed.
For volunteer crew member Kathryn Brennan, a software engineer from Larne it was her first shout onboard the all-weather lifeboat.
Kathryn said: ‘With this being my first shout onboard the all-weather lifeboat, it was good getting to put my training into use. I continuously feel supported by the rest of the crew who always go out of their way to pass down their knowledge and experience to me which makes me feel more ready with each shout.
"It's reassuring to know that you've got a good group of crew members there to guide you.”
Speaking following the call out, Larne RNLI Coxswain Roy McMullan said: "The casualty had the means to contact the Coastguard and did the right thing when they realised that they were in difficulty."
RNLI volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The charity runs 10 lifeboat stations in Northern Ireland and has 11 lifeguarded beaches which it operates seasonally.