RNLI lifesavers from Lough Derg RNLI prepare to answer the call this Christmas in Tipp
The RNLI also comes to the end of its milestone 200th year
As the RNLI comes to the end of its milestone 200th year, the charity is launching its annual Christmas fundraising appeal, with a focus on the volunteer crew members who are preparing to spend Christmas on call.
On average, RNLI lifeboats launch over 100 times during the Christmas period* every year. Whatever weather winter throws at them, RNLI crews are ready to battle the elements to save lives at sea. These rescues, and others all year round, are only made possible by the RNLI’s generous supporters, helping to fund the essential kit, training and equipment needed to keep crews prepared and protected.
Christmas is a time for family and friends, but the RNLI’s volunteer crews are ready to leave their own celebrations this festive season and answer the call for help. Just one of the thousands of crews preparing for a Christmas on call is Lough Derg RNLI.
Just after Christmas 2019 (28 December) Lough Derg RNLI volunteer crew were called to assist two kayakers in the water near Garrykennedy. With guidance from the Coast Guard the lifeboat crew reached the scene quickly and immediately took both casualties out of the water and into the lifeboat and began casualty care. The casualties were taken to Garrykennedy harbour where they were met by ambulance and paramedics to whom the RNLI volunteers handed over the care of the casualties.
Both men later made a full recovery.
Owen Cavanagh, volunteer helm at Lough Derg said: ‘There’s no feeling quite like bringing someone home safe to their families – especially at Christmas. Even at this time of year, people still get in trouble in the water, and we’re all prepared to leave our own celebrations to help them.
‘But as volunteer lifeboat crew we couldn’t launch without kind donations from the public which fund the kit, training and equipment we need to save others and get home safely to our own families.’
To make a donation to the RNLI’s Christmas Appeal, and enable the charity to continue its lifesaving work, visit: RNLI.org/WinterAppeal