Donegal Mountain Rescue urge motorists to take care after Lough Salt incident

A woman who along with her friends encountered difficulties on Thursday night at Lough Salt has expressed her gratitude to those who assisted. 

The group were travelling to Olde Glen Bar at Glenmenagh, Carrigart, for a 7pm meal and their car got stuck on a hill on the narrow road and unable to climb any further, began to see their car slip in the freezing cold conditions.

Having called the emergency services, they were assisted by Milford and Carrigart Fire Service, the Donegal Mountain Rescue Team, Donegal County Council and passers-by, with the ordeal said to have lasted “several hours.”

However, the situation was eventually sorted and everyone got home safely, for which the group were more than appreciative. 

“We had to call the emergency services, who were brilliant  and wish to convey our gratitude to the Milford and Carrigart Fire Service, Mountain Rescue and those in a 4x4 who got us to safety,” the woman, who did not wish to be named, told DonegalLive. “Their efforts in treacherous conditions are greatly appreciated.”

The Donegal Mountain Rescue Team said: “At 20:49 last night, Thursday, DMRT were tasked to Lough Salt to assist four people stuck in their car. The road between Kilmacrennan and the village of Glen had frozen over and become impassable due to extremely low temperatures and snow showers.

“Also tasked were Milford Fire Department and Donegal County Council, who managed to get the road gritted so all services could access the car. The four people were transported to Dunfanaghy. The road was still closed when we left the area and the team were stood down at 23:30. 

“Many thanks to the combined efforts of everyone involved. The recent dip in temperatures have resulted in widespread frost and ice. Be as vigilant as possible and take care when out and about. Your kind words of support are always appreciated. Thank you for supporting your Mountain Rescue Team."