Six people, including five young people aged between 11 and 15, were rescued after getting into difficulty off the coast of Clogherhead on Saturday afternoon.
The group had been on the water off Port Beach when they were dragged out to sea in choppy conditions.
Clogherhead RNLI was tasked by the Marine Rescue Coordination Centre at around 1pm on Saturday, 12th September.
All six were wearing life jackets and wetsuits and tried to remain together, but south-westerly winds of between 25 and 30 knots made conditions difficult.
Realising the danger they were in, the group called 999 and asked for assistance.
Coast Guard tracked group from shore
By the time the lifeboat reached the area, Clogherhead Coast Guard had been visually tracking the group from shore and was able to provide the lifeboat crew with their location.
A Coast Guard helicopter was also tasked to assist.
When the RNLI crew reached the group, they found they were tired and cold after spending time in the difficult sea conditions.
The six were brought safely aboard the lifeboat in three separate groups.
Once on board, they were assessed by a volunteer crew member who is also an advanced paramedic.
They were then moved to the lifeboat’s casualty and survivor area, where they were kept warm and sheltered during the journey back to Port Oriel.
The National Ambulance Service was waiting when the group arrived back on shore.
‘It was time critical’
The operation involved six crew members on board the Clogherhead lifeboat, five shore crew and a number of other volunteers.
Coxswain Sean Flanagan said getting to the group quickly had been vital.
“It was time critical that we got to this group before they became too cold and too exhausted,” he said.
“It was the first shout for three of our crew members, tractor driver Sean Doherty, Paddy Rath and Kevin Wallis today, so fair play to them and the rest of our crew.
“Six lives were saved this afternoon and I would like to thank the Clogherhead Coastguard Unit and the Coast Guard Helicopter for their help and assistance.”
RNLI issues safety reminder
Following the rescue, the RNLI reminded anyone heading out paddleboarding to check the weather, tides and sea conditions before entering the water.
Paddleboarders are also advised to use an appropriate leash and stay with their board if they fall into the water, as it can provide buoyancy while they wait for help.
Anyone who gets into difficulty at sea, or sees someone else in trouble, should call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard. The RNLI gives the same emergency advice on its Clogherhead station information.
