Bangor RNLI, Bangor Coastguard and the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service were involved in a multi-agency rescue after a swimmer got into difficulty off Groomsport Beach on Thursday morning.
Swimmer Rescued After Getting Into Difficulty Off Groomsport Beach
Bangor RNLI has rescued a swimmer as part of a multi-agency emergency operation off Groomsport Beach this morning, Thursday 28 May.
The swimmer was understood to have been in the water for up to two hours before being brought safely ashore.
A member of the public raised the alarm after spotting the person in difficulty. Belfast Coastguard then requested the launch of Bangor RNLI’s inshore Atlantic 85 class lifeboat shortly after 7am.
Bangor RNLI Lifeboat Launched Shortly After 7am
The lifeboat was helmed by Pete Semple, with crew members Gavin Mitchell, Andrew Gedge and Jonny Gedge onboard.
Weather conditions were challenging at the time, with a north-easterly Force 4 wind creating large breaking waves and a big swell.
Bangor Coastguard’s shore unit was also tasked and arrived at the scene first.
As the lifeboat approached, Bangor Coastguard requested help closer to shore due to the hazardous position of the casualty near the back of Groomsport Harbour wall.
Casualty Found Trapped Between Boulder And Sea Wall
The lifeboat crew assessed the situation and found that the swimmer was in a dangerous position.
Due to the large swell and bouldery sea floor, crew member Gavin Mitchell entered the water to assist a Bangor Coastguard shore crew member who had already begun making their way down from the harbour wall.
The swimmer was found stuck between a large boulder and the sea wall. They were showing signs of extreme cold, exhaustion and weakness.
Working together in difficult breaking waves, the RNLI and Coastguard teams agreed that the safest option was to use a rescue sled to bring the casualty from the back of the wall to the beach.
The rescue was challenging due to the rocks, swell and wave conditions, but the wider Bangor Coastguard shore team helped complete the extraction.
Once safely ashore, casualty care was provided before the swimmer was transferred into the care of the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service.
Bangor RNLI Praises Multi-Agency Teamwork
Bangor RNLI crew member Gavin Mitchell said:
“We want to wish the swimmer a speedy recovery following their ordeal this morning.
“This was a challenging call out given the location of the casualty, the breaking waves and the casualty’s condition at the time.
“We want to commend the member of public who raised the alarm as time was certainly of the essence and we want to thank our colleagues particularly those in Bangor Coastguard for their efforts.
“The teamwork from decision making to extraction was important under pressure and well executed. This was a fine example of multi-agency collaboration.”
RNLI Safety Advice For Swimmers
As summer approaches, Bangor RNLI is urging anyone planning to swim or dip in the sea to take simple safety steps.
Where possible:
- Do not swim alone
- Carry a mobile phone in a waterproof pouch
- Wear a bright coloured swim cap
- Know how to float if you get into difficulty
- Call for help or raise a hand once breathing is controlled
If you get into difficulty in the water, tilt your head back with your ears submerged, relax and try to control your breathing. Use your hands to help you stay afloat. It is okay if your legs sink, as everyone floats differently.
If you see someone in difficulty at the coast, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.
Always respect the water and never ignore someone who appears to be in difficulty. A quick 999 call could save a life.
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