RNLI crew attend two call-outs

RNLI crew attend two call-outs

2 April 2025

PORTAFERRY RNLI responded to two emergency calls last week.

The first was last Wednesday evening, with the second on Saturday afternoon.

Last Wednesday, volunteer crew members pages sounded at 5.11pm after the alarm was raised by a member of the station’s volunteer crew, Paul Mageean, who had noticed a man in difficulty when the engine of his jet ski had failed close to Strangford.

The lifeboat was launched shortly afterwards with Paul as helm and crew members Scott Blackwood, Molly Crowe and George Toma onboard, by which time a member of the public had also called 999 to report the incident.

Conditions at the time were a gentle Force 3 westerly breeze, cloudy with good visibility and a smooth sea state.

The lifeboat arrived on scene quickly and observed the casualty to be well.

However, with strong currents and no way of making his way back to shore, the decision was taken to establish a tow and bring the casualty to safety at the nearest shore.

Mr Mageean said it was fortunate to have had some nice weather during the emergency response.

“As the weather continues to improve, we would remind anyone planning to venture onto the water to check their vessel and engine ahead of the Easter period and to ensure they are ready for the season ahead,” he said.

“Always check the weather before venturing out. Always wear a lifejacket or suitable personal flotation device for your activity and always carry a means of calling for help. Should you get into difficulty or see someone else in trouble, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”

On Saturday, the Portaferry crew responded to a 999 call shortly before 1pm.

Reports were received from the Coastguard about a hydrofoil kite surfer who had come off their board and become trapped against the shore wall by the waves at Barrs Bay, close to Newtownards Sailing Club.

Eleven volunteers responded and the lifeboat was launched quickly just as an update from the Coastguard informed the crew that the member of the public who raised the alarm had managed to bring the kite surfer to safety.