Tramore RNLI rescues swimmer clinging to rocks in early morning emergency

Quick action by a passerby and lifeboat crew saves swimmer struggling near the Guillamene in Tramore Bay

Tramore RNLI was tasked by the Irish Coast Guard and launched at around 5.20am after a report of an exhausted swimmer clinging to rocks in Tramore Bay. File picture

A volunteer lifeboat crew from the Tramore RNLI raced to the rescue of a swimmer in difficulty in the early hours of this morning.

The crew was tasked by the Irish Coast Guard and launched at around 5.20am after a report of an exhausted swimmer clinging to rocks in Tramore Bay.

They discovered the swimmer on the rocks, who had got into difficulty around 50 metres from the Guillamene platform and had been heard by a passerby shouting for help.

The swimmer was brought safely on board and was assessed as being very cold and fatigued from the effects of cold-water exposure.

The casualty was then transferred to the care of the National Ambulance Service on shore and brought to University Hospital Waterford for further evaluation.

On board the RNLI team were crew members David O'Hanlon, Nóirín Phelan and Ronan McConnell.

"We are very relieved that this rescue had a successful outcome, due to the quick thinking of the passerby to call 999 and ask for the Coast Guard," lifeboat operations manager Clive Smith said.

"We urge everyone entering the sea to check the conditions, never swim alone, and always let someone know your plans. The sea is powerful, and cold-water shock can quickly impair even the strongest swimmers.

"If you ever spot anyone in difficulty in the water, call 999 and ask for the Coast Guard."