RNLI puts out its 'Mayday' call as charity’s lifeboats launch 235 times in Northern Ireland in 2025
Northern Ireland’s lifeboats launched 235 times last year, according to new figures released by the RNLI.
Volunteer crews at its ten lifeboat stations, brought 214 people to safety, three of whom were lives saved. 80 of those launches were carried out in the hours of darkness.
Meanwhile, RNLI lifeguards responded to 329 incidents and came to the aid of 382 people, seven of whom were lives saved.
The RNLI data shows the high demand on lifeboat crews and lifeguards and so the charity is putting out its own Mayday call, urging the public to get involved with its biggest national fundraising event, the Mayday Mile, to help fund its vital lifesaving service.
Participants are challenged to cover a mile a day for the month of May, with every penny raised helping to make sure that the charity’s lifesavers have everything they need to keep people safe this summer and beyond.
Linda-Gene Byrne, RNLI Water Safety Lead, said: "These latest statistics make it clear that our lifesaving service remains as vital as ever. Whether it’s paddleboarders caught by offshore winds, walkers stranded by the tide or boaters in difficulty, our crews are answering calls every day of the year.
"Taking part in the Mayday Mile is a simple way for people to support our volunteers. Every pound raised helps ensure our crews can launch at a moment’s notice — and be there for families when they need us most.”
To sign up for the Mayday Mile, or to make a donation visit RNLI.org/supportMayday