Warning issued after near tragic incident involving fisherman in Waterford
The Dunmore East RNLI detailed the incident in a post on social media
The Dunmore East RNLI detailed the incident in a post on social media last weekend.
A RNLI spokesperson said: “Dunmore East RNLI were tasked following a report of a person in the water while fishing from rocks just south of Dunmore East Harbour.
“The Dunmore East RNLI volunteer lifeboat crew were alerted at 7:50pm on Saturday, 29 August and the Shannon class all-weather lifeboat, William and Agnes Wray, was launched with five crew members onboard.
“On arrival at the scene, at the location known as The Flat Rocks, the casualty was already out of the water and on the rocks.
“A lifebuoy had been thrown to the person and used to assist them back to safety.”
The spokesperson subsequently outlined how the casualty was treated on shore after the incident.
“Emergency services were in attendance on shore, where the casualty was assessed by members of the Fire Brigade and Irish Coast Guard.
“The National Ambulance Service was called and the casualty was taken to University Hospital Waterford for further assessment.
“Dunmore East RNLI remained on scene for a short period while it was confirmed that only one person had entered the water.
“Once this was established, the lifeboat was stood down by the Irish Coast Guard and returned to station.”
They concluded by warning people to be mindful of their surroundings when going fishing.
“Following the call out, Dunmore East RNLI is reminding people fishing or spending time around exposed rocks to be particularly mindful of sea conditions and wave heights.
“People should keep a safe distance from the water’s edge, especially where waves are breaking onto rocks, and those fishing from exposed locations should consider wearing a personal flotation device.
“It is also important to be aware of the location of nearby lifesaving equipment, including lifebuoys.
“If you see someone in difficulty in or near the water, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.”
Local councillor Jim Griffin issued a similar warning in the aftermath of the incident.
In a post on Facebook, Cllr Griffin wrote: “Thankfully the Angler off Dunmore East Flat Rocks was saved on Saturday evening having been swept off the rocks by a large wave.
“The life ring and quick thinking of other anglers was key to his survival, assistance by emergency services also once he was back ashore.”
He went on to remind people about the importance of life buoys being left in place so they can be used in emergency situations.
“My post is once again to highlight and remind people that the life ring installations dotted around our coasts, rivers and lakes are of utmost importance and should never be vandalised or the ropes cut for your own uses in other activities around water.
“This Dunmore life ring had a very short amount of rope attached and only for quick thinking and another weighted line deployed by anglers, it could have been tragic.
“Over five or so years now, I have witnessed and approached many people using a safety lifeline for their personal small crab pots and other uses from the shoreline.
“I will continue to do so and report this practice where I observe it.”
He particularly appealed to non-nationals that have friends involved in fishing and angling to share the post.
“A life saved is priceless”, Cllr Griffin concluded.