Louth Coast Guard rescues two men after jet ski incident
Drogheda Coast Guard responded to the incident swiftly
Two men were rescued after their jet ski ran aground on rocks at the mouth of the River Boyne last week, prompting a swift response from Drogheda Coast Guard and emergency services.
The incident occurred on Wednesday 8th July when Drogheda Coast Guard was tasked by the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Dublin following reports of two people in difficulty on a jet ski close to the rocks at the river entrance.
The volunteer rescue unit launched its D-Class rescue boat, while land-based personnel were also dispatched to the scene.
As the three-person rescue boat crew made its way down the River Boyne, MRCC Dublin updated the unit that the two men and their jet ski had come to rest on rocks beside the Aleria Navigational Marker at the river mouth.
On arrival, Coast Guard volunteers established contact with both casualties before carefully manoeuvring the rescue boat alongside the rocks. The vessel was secured, allowing both men to be safely transferred aboard.
One of the casualties sustained minor injuries during the incident.
The pair were brought back to the former Fishmeal Factory slipway, where Drogheda Coast Guard's shore crew and paramedics from the National Ambulance Service were waiting. The injured man was assessed at the scene before being taken by ambulance for further treatment.
The jet ski remained stranded on rocks above the waterline as the tide continued to ebb. However, a number of local jet ski users attended the scene and successfully recovered the craft before escorting it back to the Fishmeal area.
Drogheda Coast Guard's rescue boat remained on standby throughout the recovery operation to provide assistance if required before being stood down once the operation had concluded safely.
Following the incident, Drogheda Coast Guard reminded water users of the dangers posed by changing conditions around river mouths and coastal areas.
“We would like to remind everyone enjoying our waterways that conditions can change quickly, particularly around river mouths, strong tidal flows and rocky shorelines.
“Always wear a suitable lifejacket or personal flotation device, ensure your craft is in good working order, and avoid operating close to hazardous areas.”