'Float to live': Public urged to swim safe after Lough Derg swimmer gets into difficulty

Lough Derg RNLI lifeboat Jean Spier was launched when they received a report of a swimmer in trouble. Picture: Lough Derg RNLI

A swimmer on Lough Derg was saved this afternoon thanks to their yellow buoyancy aid.

The Lough Derg RNLI was launched after reports of a swimmer in difficulty from a member of the public.

The person who called it in was able to spot the person from the shore at Youghal Bay as they had a yellow buoyancy aid with them.

Using binoculars to better assess the situation, the person found the swimmer was struggling.

Lough Derg RNLI lifeboat was launched at 12.52pm with helm Eleanor Hooker, crew James Corballis, Chris Parker and Joe O’Donoghue on board.

At 12.58pm, Valentia Coast Guard communicated that the swimmer had been located and was back on shore.

The lifeboat was stood down and arrived back at the station at 1.02pm.

Over the summer months, many people will be heading out on the waters to enjoy the good weather and they are urged to swim safe.

"If you get in trouble in the water, float to live," said Aoife Kennedy, Launching Authority at Lough Derg RNLI.

"Lean back, extend your arms and legs and control your breathing. Before setting out, make sure someone knows where you are and carry a mobile phone in a waterproof pouch."